SpaceX's Dragon cargo spacecraft successfully splashed down off the coast of California at 1:44 a.m. EDT on May 25, 2025, completing its 32nd commercial resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS) for NASA. The unpiloted spacecraft carried approximately 4,122 pounds of scientific experiments and supplies back to Earth.
Dragon undocked from the ISS on May 23, bringing back vital scientific hardware and samples. Among these is the MISSE-20 experiment, which studied how various materials respond to the harsh space environment, including radiation shielding and reentry ceramics. Also returning is Astrobee-REACCH, which demonstrated robotic grasping capabilities for potential orbital debris removal, satellite maintenance, and enhancing safety in space operations.
The mission also brought back books from the Story Time from Space project, combining STEM education with space exploration. Hardware from the OPTICA technology demonstration, designed to improve real-time hyperspectral imagery transmission, was also retrieved. This technology could enhance disaster response and other Earth observation services. The return of Dragon marks a significant milestone in ongoing space research, contributing to advancements in material science, robotics, and Earth observation.
The Dragon spacecraft arrived at the ISS on April 22, 2025, after launching on a Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center. For over two decades, the ISS has facilitated continuous scientific research benefiting humanity. This research supports future deep space missions, including NASA's Artemis program and preparations for Mars exploration.