A Cygnus cargo spacecraft, the larger Cygnus XL model, successfully reached the International Space Station (ISS) on September 19th. This arrival followed a one-day delay attributed to a thruster malfunction. The station's Canadarm2 robotic arm secured the spacecraft at 7:24 a.m. Eastern Time after it reached its designated capture point.
The initial launch of the NG-23 mission occurred on September 14th, with an anticipated arrival 24 hours earlier. However, NASA announced a postponement on September 16th due to the Cygnus's main engine unexpectedly shutting down during two thruster burns. Following an investigation, NASA clarified on September 17th that the thruster itself performed as expected. The premature shutdown was triggered by a "conservative safeguard in the software settings," activating a warning system and halting the thruster.
The subsequent approach and docking maneuvers to the Unity module proceeded without further issues. NASA astronaut Jonny Kim, who operated the Canadarm2, commented, “Adapting to and overcoming unforeseen challenges is something we do at NASA, and I’m very proud to be a part of this team.” The Cygnus XL's increased size, boasting a 33% larger pressurized cargo module, allowed for the transport of approximately 5,000 kilograms of supplies. This shipment is expected to remain at the ISS until spring.