Cygnus XL, Northrop Grumman’s largest cargo craft, docked at the ISS with 11,000 pounds of supplies after a delayed approach.
Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus XL, the largest cargo spacecraft yet
Photo Credit: NASA
The biggest cargo ship of Northrop Grumman, the new Cygnus XL, arrived at the International Space Station. It was the spacecraft's first flight ever. It was taking around 11,000 pounds (about 4,990 kilograms) of supplies. The craft docked after a brief delay due to a thruster problem. The Cygnus XL was caught by the astronaut Jonny Kim, using the space station's robotic arm, Canadarm2. The ship is named S.S. William “Willie” McCool.
According to NASA, Cygnus XL blasted off from Cape Canaveral on September 14, 2025, positioned aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. It is larger than previous versions of Cygnus. It can carry more supplies. What it delivered is almost 30 percent more than previous models. The mission is named NG-23. It is also the first Cygnus flight in more than 12 months, following NG-21 in August 2024.
There had been a problem with the thrusters on Cygnus XL. Due to this, the spacecraft couldn't make the original date. The team replotted its course and plan of attack. They added extra burns to compensate. The ship then overtook and landed safely. Safety was always the priority.
On board are equipment for science and health. Semiconductor crystal research is a beneficiary of some cargo. Others favour better cryogenic fuel tanks. There is also an ultraviolet light system for cleaning water. There are instruments for growing pharmaceutical crystals. All of these have Earth and on-station mission support components.
This arrival demonstrates a step forward in space supply missions. Resupply is more efficient because the Cygnus XL is bigger. More frequent missions become possible. Remembering McCool links the work of today with the past bravery.
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