SpaceX launched the CRS-33 mission to the International Space Station from Cape Canaveral on Sunday.
This flight marked the 50th Dragon visit since the first resupply demonstration in May 2012.
After stage separation, the Falcon 9 first stage landed on the droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas in the Atlantic.
SpaceX officials said Dragon will autonomously dock with the ISS on Monday after a 28-hour flight.
Resupply Mission Delivers Supplies and Science
The CRS-33 carries 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) of food, equipment, and experiments for the ISS crew.
SpaceX emphasized the mission also supports 50 critical scientific studies for human space exploration.
Researchers will test whether blocking a protein linked to bone loss can reduce astronauts’ bone deterioration.
Heidi Parris, ISS associate program scientist, explained the experiment may improve long-term astronaut health.
Dragon Prepares for Reboost and Return
Sunday’s flight marked the first-stage booster’s seventh launch and Dragon’s third CRS mission.
NASA will use Dragon in September to adjust the ISS altitude through a reboost maneuver.
Bill Spetch, ISS Operations Integration Manager, said the station loses altitude gradually due to atmospheric drag.
NASA contracted SpaceX to provide this reboost capability for station maintenance.
Dragon will return to Earth no earlier than December, bringing experiments and supplies back from the ISS.
