Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus XL cargo spacecraft was released from the International Space Station at 12:44 p.m. EDT on October 9, 2026, after nearly six months docked there. Canadarm2 detached it from the Unity module and let it go; NASA said the latest plan was for the spacecraft to deorbit on October 12 and burn up in Earth’s atmosphere.
When and where did Cygnus XL leave the space station?
NASA reported that Cygnus XL was released at 12:44 p.m. EDT on October 9, 2026, while the ISS was about 260 miles above the Pacific Ocean. The spacecraft had arrived nearly six months earlier on Northrop Grumman’s Commercial Resupply Services-24 (CRS-24) mission. NASA’s post-release report confirms the event and its timing.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Old Modern Handicrafts Magellan Spacecraft Model - Explore Venus in Style with This Miniature Model... | $50.87 | Buy on Amazon |
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
NASA’s October 6 advisory said CRS-24 launched on April 11 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. That advisory forecast a release at about 12:45 p.m. EDT; the later report gave the actual time as 12:44 p.m. NASA’s departure advisory also directed viewers to NASA Live for coverage.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →How did Canadarm2 release the cargo spacecraft?
Cygnus XL did not depart by simply undocking under its own power. Canadarm2 removed the spacecraft from the Earth-facing port of the ISS Unity module, maneuvered it into position, then released it. NASA astronaut Luke Delaney monitored the operation aboard the station, according to NASA’s advisory.
#1 Best Overall
- Dimensions: The miniature model by Old Modern Handicrafts measures 8.5 x 7 x 8 inches, perfectly sized to showcase intricate detailing while fitting seamlessly into any space.
- Premium Material: Old Modern Handicrafts model scale crafted from robust iron, ensuring longevity and sturdiness to withstand the test of time while maintaining its pristine condition
- Intricate Detailings: This Old Modern Handicrafts minature model features, its intricate thruster module, sleek rocket booster, precise antennae, and gleaming solar panels.
- Authentic Color Palette: This scale model features shades of cerulean blue, cream, gold, and silver that accurately mirror the original, adding a touch of realism and authenticity.
- Historical Significance: This honors pioneering achievements of the Magellan Spacecraft in Venus mapping and planetary exploration, symbolizing human ingenuity and scientific progress.
What cargo did Cygnus XL deliver?
NASA said the spacecraft arrived with about 11,000 pounds of supplies, scientific investigations, commercial products, hardware and other cargo for NASA and its international partners. The CRS-24 delivery supported the station for nearly six months before the vehicle’s departure.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What happens to Cygnus XL after departure?
NASA’s October 9 report said flight controllers planned to command Cygnus XL to deorbit on Monday, October 12, carrying several thousand pounds of disposal items and other unneeded cargo into Earth’s atmosphere, where the spacecraft would burn up. This was the announced schedule as of October 9, not confirmation that reentry had taken place. An earlier NASA advisory had listed October 11, so the post-release report is the newer schedule.
Space.com reported that this Cygnus XL carried heat-shield prototypes intended for testing during reentry. That detail is attributed to Space.com’s October 9 coverage; NASA’s post-release report described the planned disposal but did not include that detail.
Which Cygnus XL was it?
Space.com identifies the spacecraft as the S.S. Steven R. Nagel, the second Cygnus XL and the 24th Cygnus to deliver cargo to the station. NASA’s post-release report refers to it as Cygnus XL. Space.com also quoted Delaney after the release: “We’re just really excited to have had the S.S. Stephen R. Nagel on board, and all the science and research, critical hardware,” followed by thanks to the teams involved in assembly, launch, docking and undocking. The spelling “Stephen” is preserved here as it appears in the quoted transcription.
Where can you watch the departure?
NASA’s October 6 advisory directed viewers to NASA Live for coverage of the departure. It does not identify a particular physical viewing product.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
