Roscosmos reports Progress MS-25 and Soyuz-2.1a launch from Baikonur
The Progress MS-25 cargo ship and the Soyuz-2.1a rocket lifted off from Baikonur, according to a brief update shared via the Roscosmos Telegram channel. The message conveyed that, today at 12:25:11 Moscow time, the Soyuz-2.1a launch vehicle and the Progress MS-25 cargo freighter successfully cleared the launch pad in Kazakhstan and began their voyage to orbit.
From launch through orbital insertion, trajectory corrections, and the deployment of solar panels and antennas, procedures proceeded as planned with no reported malfunctions. Officials confirmed that the mission proceeded along the expected timeline and that all critical stages completed without anomaly.
Onboard, Progress MS-25 carries a substantial cargo load estimated at 2.5 tons. The manifest includes 515 kilograms of propellant, 420 kilograms of potable water, and 40 kilograms of nitrogen intended for in-orbit refueling operations. In addition to life-support and consumables, the craft transports 1.5 tons of welding equipment and tools, along with clothing and provisions for the ISS crew. These supplies support routine station maintenance, scientific experiments, and crew welfare during ongoing missions aboard the International Space Station.
The Roscosmos briefing noted that a docking or “leap” to the Poisk module is scheduled for December 3 at 14:15 Moscow time, marking a key milestone in the ongoing resupply and maintenance cycle for the orbital outpost. The Poisk integration would enable expanded crew activities and access to additional scientific equipment as part of the ISS operations for the coming period.
Earlier reports describe Roscosmos arranging small tokens for cosmonauts aboard the ISS, with similar gestures from family members and friends that add a human touch to the long-duration spaceflight experience. In the lead-up to the New Year, crews were presented with sweets and keepsakes such as dragon-themed keychains to celebrate the holiday season, reflecting a tradition of morale-boosting mementos in spaceflight culture.
In related aerospace developments, Russia announced a formal project to pursue a lunar outpost in collaboration with China. The proposal envisions a cooperative approach to lunar exploration and potential joint facilities, signaling a broader strategic emphasis on international partnerships in deep-space exploration as the space community advances missions beyond low Earth orbit.