# Cygnus NG-17

> cargo resupply mission to the International Space Station

**Wikidata**: [Q104554096](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q104554096)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cygnus_NG-17)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cygnus-ng-17

## Summary
Cygnus NG-17 was a cargo resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS) launched by Northrop Grumman in February 2022. It was the 17th flight of the Cygnus Enhanced spacecraft and delivered over 3,600 kg of supplies to the ISS. The mission, named after NASA astronaut Piers Sellers, marked a key resupply effort for the orbiting laboratory.

## Key Facts
- **Mission Type**: Cargo resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS)
- **Operator**: Northrop Grumman Space Systems (United States)
- **Launch Date**: February 19, 2022, at 17:40:03 UTC from Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport Launch Pad 0A
- **Launch Vehicle**: Antares (flight number 16)
- **Spacecraft**: Cygnus Enhanced (model: PCM-17)
- **Payload Mass**: 3,651 kg (8,050 lbs)
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit
- **Berthing Date**: February 21, 2022, at the ISS Unity module
- **Unberthing Date**: June 28, 2022
- **Atmospheric Reentry**: June 29, 2022, at approximately 06:45 UTC
- **Preceded by**: Cygnus NG-16
- **Followed by**: Cygnus NG-18
- **Named After**: NASA astronaut Piers Sellers
- **Manufacturer**: Northrop Grumman Space Systems (general contractor), Thales Alenia Space (subcontractor)
- **Country of Origin**: United States (primary), Italy (subcontractor)

## FAQs
### Q: What was the purpose of Cygnus NG-17?
A: Cygnus NG-17 was a cargo resupply mission to the International Space Station, delivering over 3,600 kg of supplies, including scientific experiments, crew provisions, and hardware.

### Q: Who launched Cygnus NG-17?
A: The mission was launched by Northrop Grumman Space Systems using the Antares rocket from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in Virginia, USA.

### Q: How long was Cygnus NG-17 docked to the ISS?
A: The spacecraft was docked to the ISS for approximately 48 days, from February 21 to June 28, 2022.

### Q: What happened to Cygnus NG-17 after its mission?
A: After unberthing from the ISS, Cygnus NG-17 conducted a controlled atmospheric reentry and disintegrated over the Pacific Ocean on June 29, 2022.

### Q: Why was the mission named after Piers Sellers?
A: The mission was named in honor of NASA astronaut Piers Sellers, who was known for his contributions to Earth science and climate research.

## Why It Matters
Cygnus NG-17 was a critical resupply mission for the International Space Station, ensuring the continuous operation of the orbiting laboratory. The mission delivered essential cargo, including scientific experiments, crew supplies, and hardware, supporting ongoing research and maintenance. As part of NASA’s Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) program, Cygnus NG-17 demonstrated Northrop Grumman’s reliability in delivering supplies to the ISS. The mission also honored NASA astronaut Piers Sellers, reflecting the program’s commitment to both scientific progress and astronaut legacy. By maintaining a steady flow of supplies, Cygnus missions like NG-17 are vital for sustaining human presence in space and advancing scientific discovery.

## Notable For
- **Named After an Astronaut**: The mission was dedicated to NASA astronaut Piers Sellers, a prominent figure in Earth science and climate research.
- **Payload Delivery**: Carried over 3,600 kg of cargo, including scientific experiments, crew provisions, and hardware.
- **Controlled Reentry**: Conducted a safe and controlled atmospheric reentry, disintegrating over the Pacific Ocean.
- **Part of a Series**: The 17th mission in the Cygnus Enhanced series, following Cygnus NG-16 and preceding Cygnus NG-18.
- **International Collaboration**: Involved contributions from Northrop Grumman (USA) and Thales Alenia Space (Italy).

## Body
### Mission Overview
Cygnus NG-17 was the 17th cargo resupply mission to the International Space Station under NASA’s Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) program. Operated by Northrop Grumman Space Systems, the mission launched on February 19, 2022, from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in Virginia, USA. The spacecraft, named *S.S. Piers Sellers* in honor of NASA astronaut Piers Sellers, delivered over 3,651 kg of cargo to the ISS.

### Launch and Docking
The mission was launched aboard an Antares rocket, flight number 16, at 17:40:03 UTC. After a successful journey, Cygnus NG-17 berthed with the ISS on February 21, 2022, at the Unity module. The spacecraft remained docked for approximately 48 days, providing essential supplies and support to the station’s crew.

### Cargo and Payload
The mission carried a diverse payload, including scientific experiments, crew provisions, and hardware. Key components included:
- **Scientific Research**: Experiments in areas such as biology, physics, and materials science.
- **Crew Supplies**: Food, water, and other essentials for the ISS crew.
- **Hardware**: Tools and equipment for station maintenance and upgrades.

### Reentry and Disposal
After completing its mission, Cygnus NG-17 undocked from the ISS on June 28, 2022. The spacecraft conducted a controlled atmospheric reentry and disintegrated over the Pacific Ocean on June 29, 2022, at approximately 06:45 UTC.

### Significance
Cygnus NG-17 was a pivotal mission in maintaining the ISS’s operational capabilities. It supported ongoing scientific research, crew sustainability, and station maintenance. The mission also highlighted Northrop Grumman’s role in NASA’s CRS program and the importance of international collaboration in space exploration.

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## References

1. [Source](https://www.northropgrumman.com/space/nasa-commercial-resupply-mission-ng-17/)
2. Jonathan's Space Report
3. [Source](https://planet4589.org/space/jsr/back/news.808.txt)
4. [Source](https://planet4589.org/space/jsr/back/news.803.txt)
5. [Source](https://www.n2yo.com/satellite/?s=51712)