By Elena Teslova
MOSCOW (AA) - Russia’s space agency Roscosmos on Thursday launched the Soyuz-2.1a rocket carrying a cargo spacecraft to the International Space Station (ISS).
The rocket was launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan and the Progress MS-27 cargo spacecraft will reach the ISS within two days, Roscosmos said in a statement.
The spacecraft will deliver 2,504 kg (5,520 pounds) of cargo to the ISS, including 1,290 kg of tools and equipment for station systems, stowage for scientific experiments, clothing, food, medical and sanitary products for the crew, 754 kg of fuel for refueling the station, 420 kg of drinking water and 40 kg of nitrogen to replenish the ISS atmosphere.
Progress MS-27 will also deliver gifts for Russian cosmonauts.
The rocket features images commemorating the 90th anniversary of the birth of Alexey Leonov, the first man to conduct a spacewalk, and the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg State University.
Additionally, the rocket's body displays the symbolism of the Russian Student Detachments (RSO), which are celebrating their 65th anniversary this year.