On April 8, 2025, at 11:58 AM Moscow time, the Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft successfully docked with the Prichal module of the Russian segment of the International Space Station (ISS) after a three-hour flight. This mission marks a significant milestone as it brings together a diverse crew of astronauts and cosmonauts for an extended stay in orbit.
The crew of the Soyuz MS-27 includes Russian cosmonauts Sergei Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky, alongside NASA astronaut Jonathan Kim. This marks Ryzhikov's third journey to the ISS, where he has been appointed as the mission commander. The launch took place at 08:47:15 AM Moscow time from the Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, with the Soyuz-2.1a rocket successfully placing the spacecraft into orbit.
Upon arrival, the crew will join the existing members of the 72nd long-term expedition, which comprises Roscosmos cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin, Ivan Vagner, Kirill Peskov, NASA astronauts Donald Pettit, Ann McClain, Nicole Ayers, and JAXA astronaut Takuya Onishi. Together, they will embark on a mission that is set to last approximately 245 days, during which they plan to conduct over 40 scientific experiments and two scheduled spacewalks.
NASA has stated that astronaut Kim will focus on scientific research and technological experiments aimed at preparing crews for future missions and benefiting people on Earth. Kim, who hails from Los Angeles, is a pilot in the naval aviation and a physician in aerospace medicine, bringing a wealth of experience to the mission.
The docking of the Soyuz MS-27 was broadcast live on Roscosmos' YouTube channel, allowing audiences to witness this remarkable achievement in real-time. The successful launch and docking highlight the ongoing collaboration between Russia and the United States in space exploration. In February 2025, Roscosmos and NASA agreed to extend their cross-flight agreement until the end of 2026, ensuring that astronauts from both countries can continue to travel to the ISS aboard each other's spacecraft.
The Soyuz MS-27 mission is particularly poignant, as it is dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. Symbolically named "Rocket of Victory," the spacecraft features special decorations to commemorate this significant historical event. This dedication serves to honor the sacrifices made during the war while also celebrating the achievements of modern space exploration.
During their time aboard the ISS, the crew will engage in various scientific and applied research activities. The mission will also see the arrival of Progress MS-31 and Progress MS-32 cargo ships, which will deliver supplies and equipment necessary for the astronauts' extended stay. The scientific research conducted during this expedition is expected to contribute valuable insights into a range of fields, including medicine and technology.
In addition to the planned scientific work, the crew will also participate in two spacewalks, with Ryzhikov scheduled to conduct both. These spacewalks will allow the astronauts to perform maintenance tasks on the ISS and conduct experiments in the unique environment of space.
The successful launch and docking of the Soyuz MS-27 serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of international cooperation in space exploration. As Ryzhikov, Zubritsky, and Kim prepare for their extended mission, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of their respective nations, united in the quest for knowledge and discovery beyond our planet.
As the crew settles into their new home aboard the ISS, they will join their fellow astronauts in continuing the legacy of human space exploration, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring future generations to look to the stars.
