Cygnus Spacecraft Experiences Glitches Following Falcon 9 Launch

Engineers are working on a new plan, as engine problems are delaying the Cygnus mission's efforts to reach the International Space Station.

The Northrop Grumman Cygnus cargo spacecraft was launched successfully onto the International Space Station (ISS) on August 4 by a Falcon 9 rocket. However, the spacecraft faced technical issues shortly after separation, delaying its scheduled arrival at the ISS.

The launch, which took place at 11:02 a.m. Eastern from Space Launch Complex 40 in Cape Canaveral, Florida, began as planned despite a weather delay imposed by Tropical Storm Debbie. Cygnus split from the Falcon 9's top stage around 15 minutes after launch.

Following separation, the spacecraft was expected to conduct a targeted altitude burn (TB1) to modify its orbit in preparation for a rendezvous with the ISS. However, the burn was missed due to "late entry to burn was sequencing” and a "slightly low initial pressure state" in the engine. NASA said that Cygnus is currently at a safe height, and Northrop Grumman engineers are working on a new trajectory plan to guarantee Cygnus reaches the ISS and is captured by the station's robotic arm.

The Cygnus spacecraft carries 3,857 kilograms of payload, which includes crucial vehicle components, research experiments, and crew supplies. Notably, the expedition will investigate the impact of spaceflight on DNA and stem cell research, as well as conduct educational activities.

Cygnus' second of three Falcon 9 missions, with future missions handled by Northrop Grumman's new Antares 330 rocket. The new Antares rocket's readiness is on track, although no particular deadlines have been revealed.