SpaceX Dragon to depart ISS with scientific research samples

The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is set to return to Earth on Friday, carrying nearly 6,700 pounds of scientific experiments, equipment, and supplies from the International Space Station. NASA scheduled its departure for 12:05 p.m. EDT on Thursday, with splashdown off the California coast. Returning experiments include studies on space‑exposed materials, radiation shielding, and Astrobee robots that demonstrated the ability to grasp and move objects in space. This marks NASA’s 32nd commercial resupply mission with SpaceX, UPI has reported. The splashdown won’t be livestreamed, but NASA will provide updates online.