Northrop Grumman CRS-25
Short answer
Northrop Grumman CRS-25 is an upcoming uncrewed NASA cargo resupply mission that will send a Cygnus XL spacecraft carrying approximately 4,990 kg of science, supplies and equipment to the International Space Station aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9.
- Agency
- Northrop Grumman Space Systems
- Rocket
- Falcon 9 Block 5
- Launch date
- 2026-09-22
- Status
- planned
Frequently asked questions
What is Northrop Grumman CRS-25?
Northrop Grumman CRS-25, also called NG-25, is an upcoming uncrewed NASA Commercial Resupply Services mission that will deliver scientific investigations, supplies and equipment to the International Space Station.
When will Northrop Grumman CRS-25 launch?
NASA currently places CRS-25 in the Fall/Winter 2026 flight period. Current launch tracking lists the mission no earlier than December 2026, but an exact launch date and time have not yet been officially announced.
Which rocket will launch CRS-25?
Northrop Grumman CRS-25 is currently planned to launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket.
What spacecraft will be used for CRS-25?
The mission will use Northrop Grumman's Cygnus XL uncrewed cargo spacecraft.
Where is CRS-25 going?
CRS-25 will travel to the International Space Station in low Earth orbit.
How much cargo will CRS-25 carry?
NASA's current planning calls for approximately 11,000 pounds of cargo, equivalent to about 4,990 kilograms. The final cargo total and detailed manifest may change before launch.
Will astronauts fly aboard CRS-25?
No. Cygnus XL is an uncrewed cargo spacecraft, so CRS-25 has a crew count of zero.
How will Cygnus XL reach the International Space Station?
After launch and orbital insertion, Cygnus XL will perform rendezvous maneuvers toward the International Space Station. Near the station, it is expected to be grappled using the Canadarm2 robotic arm and then robotically installed on the station.
How long will CRS-25 remain at the International Space Station?
The exact planned duration for CRS-25 has not yet been officially published. Previous Cygnus missions have remained attached to the station for several months.
What happens to Cygnus XL after the mission?
After completing its station operations, Cygnus XL is expected to depart carrying disposal cargo and eventually perform a destructive atmospheric re-entry.
Can Cygnus XL reboost the International Space Station?
Yes. Cygnus XL has demonstrated the ability to perform International Space Station reboost operations. Whether CRS-25 will conduct a reboost will depend on NASA's mission planning and has not yet been confirmed for this flight.