A SpaceX Dragon cargo capsule is scheduled to undock from the International Space Station (ISS) today, February 26, 2026, at 12:05 p.m. EST (1705 GMT), marking the end of a roughly six-month stay. This mission, designated CRS-33, wasn’t just about delivering supplies; it similarly demonstrated a new capability for the Dragon capsule – reboosting the ISS, a critical function for maintaining the station’s orbit and long-term viability.
The robotic Dragon spacecraft arrived at the ISS on August 25, 2025, carrying approximately 5,000 pounds (2,270 kilograms) of scientific equipment and essential supplies for the astronauts aboard, representing the 33rd commercial resupply mission performed by SpaceX for NASA. Beyond its primary cargo delivery role, CRS-33 successfully executed six reboost maneuvers – five in 2025 and a final one on January 23 – before preparations for its return journey began. You can watch the undocking live, with coverage beginning at 11:45 a.m. EST (1645 GMT), courtesy of NASA, via Space.com or directly through the space agency.
Historically, Russia’s Progress freighter has been responsible for these crucial reboosts, which counteract the effects of atmospheric drag. However, with the future of Russia’s participation in the ISS program uncertain – the orbiting lab is currently slated for deorbiting in late 2030 – demonstrating alternative reboosting methods is becoming increasingly important. Both SpaceX’s Dragon and Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus spacecraft have now proven capable of performing this task, offering redundancy and ensuring the ISS remains operational.
The Dragon capsule isn’t returning empty. It’s carrying a wealth of scientific experiments back to Earth, including samples from the Euro Material Aging study. This study exposed 141 materials to the harsh environment of space for a year to assess degradation of coatings, insulation and 3D-printed materials, according to NASA officials. Also onboard are materials from Thailand’s Liquid Crystals experiment, which investigated the stability of films used in electronics in microgravity. These experiments could lead to advancements in spacecraft construction, display technology, and optical devices for future missions.
Unlike other ISS cargo craft – Progress, Cygnus, and Japan’s HTV-X – which are designed to burn up upon reentry into Earth’s atmosphere, the Dragon capsule is reusable. It will splash down under parachutes in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California on Friday, February 27, at approximately 2:44 a.m. EST (0744 GMT). Notably, NASA has confirmed that the reentry and splashdown will not be livestreamed.
The success of CRS-33 highlights the growing role of commercial partners like SpaceX in maintaining and operating the International Space Station. The ability of Dragon to not only deliver cargo but also actively contribute to the station’s orbital maintenance demonstrates the increasing versatility and importance of these private spaceflight capabilities.
As the ISS approaches its planned retirement date, the development and validation of these alternative reboosting methods, and the continued reliability of commercial resupply missions, will be crucial for ensuring the station’s continued operation and maximizing its scientific output in the years to come. The data returned from experiments like the Euro Material Aging study and the Liquid Crystals experiment will undoubtedly inform the design and construction of future space habitats and exploration vehicles.
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