Dragon
SpaceX's capsule that carries astronauts and cargo to and from the International Space Station, and flies private crews.
Why it matters
Since 2020 Dragon has flown NASA astronauts to and from the space station on a US vehicle, ending a gap that began in 2011. SpaceX says it is the only spacecraft now flying that can bring significant amounts of cargo back to Earth.
How the technology works
Dragon launches on a Falcon 9, raises its orbit to catch up with the space station and docks autonomously. It carries up to seven people and cargo inside, with more cargo in an unpressurized trunk that is released before reentry.
Two drogue and four main parachutes slow it for landing, and capsules are refurbished and flown again.
Sources
Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction