# Progress MS

> variant of the Progress expendable cargo spacecraft

**Wikidata**: [Q21804540](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q21804540)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progress_MS)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/progress-ms

## Summary
Progress MS is a variant of the Russian Progress expendable cargo spacecraft, specifically designed for resupply missions to the International Space Station (ISS). It represents an upgraded iteration of the long-standing Progress class, incorporating modernized systems and improved reliability. These spacecraft are critical for delivering cargo such as food, fuel, water, and scientific equipment to the ISS.

## Key Facts
- Subclass of the Progress spacecraft series developed originally by the Soviet Union and later operated by Russia.
- Used exclusively for cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station.
- Includes multiple numbered missions, including Progress MS-01 through MS-17, with some gaps in numbering.
- Missions typically carry several tons of supplies and can remain docked to the ISS for months before undocking and deorbiting.
- First mission, Progress MS-01, launched in December 2015.
- Several missions, such as MS-04, experienced launch failures or anomalies.
- Operated under the Russian space program and managed by Roscosmos.
- Features enhanced telemetry and communication systems compared to earlier Progress models.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of Progress MS spacecraft?
A: The Progress MS spacecraft are uncrewed cargo vehicles used to deliver essential supplies like food, water, fuel, and scientific equipment to the International Space Station. They also help reboost the station’s orbit and remove waste upon departure.

### Q: How many Progress MS missions have been launched?
A: As of the latest data, there have been at least 17 missions labeled Progress MS-01 through MS-17, though not all numbers in sequence were flown.

### Q: What makes Progress MS different from other Progress variants?
A: Progress MS includes upgrades in navigation, communications, and telemetry systems compared to earlier versions like Progress M. These improvements enhance docking accuracy and mission control capabilities during flight.

## Why It Matters
The Progress MS series plays a vital role in sustaining operations aboard the International Space Station. Without regular resupply missions, the ISS would be unable to support continuous human habitation or conduct long-term scientific research. The Progress MS variant ensures more reliable delivery due to technological enhancements over previous generations. Its missions contribute directly to international collaboration in space exploration and maintain the logistical backbone necessary for ongoing low-Earth-orbit activities. Additionally, successful missions reinforce confidence in automated docking technologies and cargo logistics—key components for future deep-space endeavors.

## Notable For
- Being one of the most frequently used cargo spacecraft for ISS resupply since its introduction in 2015.
- Incorporating advanced digital flight control and telemetry systems compared to older Progress models.
- Supporting both routine supply runs and emergency deliveries when crewed missions are delayed.
- Demonstrating high operational frequency with numerous consecutive successful missions after early setbacks like MS-04.
- Serving as part of Russia's continuing legacy in robotic space logistics dating back to the Mir space station era.

## Body
### Overview
Progress MS is a modernized version of the historic Progress spacecraft line, which has served as the primary cargo vehicle for Soviet and Russian space stations since the 1970s. Designed specifically for use with the International Space Station, these craft are fully automated and disposable, burning up upon reentry after completing their mission.

### Development and Design
- Based on the Soyuz spacecraft design but modified for cargo transport rather than crew transportation.
- Upgraded avionics suite introduced in the “MS” designation improves autonomous docking performance and ground communication links.
- Equipped with a pressurized cargo compartment, refueling system, and engine section containing propellant for orbital maneuvers.

### Operational History
- Debut mission was **Progress MS-01**, launched on **December 21, 2015**.
- Regularly scheduled flights occur approximately every few months depending on ISS needs.
- Some missions have supported special tests, such as redocking procedures (e.g., MS-01).
- **Progress MS-04** suffered a failure shortly after launch on **December 1, 2016**, resulting in loss of the vehicle.
- Later missions, starting from MS-05 onward, returned to consistent success rates.

### Missions List
Below are select missions based on available information:
- **MS-01**: Launched Dec 2015 – Test and resupply mission
- **MS-02**: Resupply mission
- **MS-03**: Resupply mission
- **MS-04**: Launch failure (Dec 2016)
- **MS-05**: Successful resupply
- **MS-06 to MS-17**: All conducted standard cargo missions to ISS between 2017–2020

Each mission delivers around 2+ tons of cargo including dry goods, propellant, oxygen, and water.

### Legacy and Future Role
With decades of proven service history, the Progress family—including the MS variant—remains integral to ISS logistics. While newer commercial providers like SpaceX Dragon offer return capability, Progress remains unmatched in simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and reliability for one-way cargo delivery.

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  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Progress MS",
  "description": "variant of the Progress expendable cargo spacecraft",
  "sameAs": [
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## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/progress-ms.htm)
2. [Source](https://www.russianspaceweb.com/progress-ms.html)