SpaceX is set to launch a significantly upgraded cargo resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS), marking a pivotal moment in commercial space logistics. This mission, NASA's NG-23, utilizes the newly designed Cygnus XL spacecraft from Northrop Grumman, boasting a remarkable 33 percent increase in cargo capacity compared to its predecessors. Launching atop a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's pad 40 at 6:11 a.m. EDT (2211 UTC) on September 14th, 2025, this launch represents a significant leap forward in the efficiency and capability of space resupply missions.
Spaceflight Now will provide live coverage beginning approximately 90 minutes before liftoff, allowing viewers worldwide to witness this exciting event. The Falcon 9's first stage booster, B1094, will make its fourth flight, having previously supported the Starlink 12-10, Axiom Mission 4, and Crew-11 missions. Approximately eight minutes post-launch, B1094 will execute a precision landing at Landing Zone 4 at Cape Canaveral, marking SpaceX's 505th successful landing and the 14th at that specific site.
The Cygnus XL, separating from the Falcon 9 upper stage after 14.5 minutes, embarks on its solo journey to the ISS. Scheduled to dock with the station on Wednesday, September 17th, at 6:35 a.m. EDT (1035 UTC), this cargo freighter carries over 11,000 pounds (4,990 kg) of vital supplies, including food, scientific equipment, and essential materials. Its extended mission profile keeps it docked until approximately March 2025.
This enhanced capacity is crucial, as Ryan Tinter, vice president of Civil Space Systems for Northrop Grumman, explains: "It's really critical because we can deliver significantly more science, and we're able to deliver a lot more cargo prelaunch, really trying to drive down the cost per kilogram to NASA." The Cygnus XL's improved efficiency reflects a broader strategy to establish sustainable and cost-effective commercial options for low Earth orbit operations.
Due to its increased size, a unique operational strategy is in place. Cygnus will be temporarily unberthed from the station using the robotic arm to facilitate the approach and docking of a crewed Russian Soyuz craft on November 27th. As Dina Contella, deputy manager of NASA’s ISS Program, explained, this maneuver ensures the safety of both vehicles during docking procedures. Alternatively, the Cygnus could be filled with waste and released before the Soyuz MS-28 arrival.
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Originally published at: https://spaceflightnow.com/2025/09/14/live-coverage-spacex-to-launch-new-improved-northrop-grumman-cygnus-xl-resupply-ship-to-the-space-station/
