Russian cargo ship "Progress M-18M" has successfully docked with the ISS. The docking took place at 00:40 Moscow time.

This is already the third successful shortened, 6-hour docking in the history of the ISS. The first such launch, when a spacecraft makes only four orbit runs, was put to the test in August.

According to a mission control spokesman, experts had been developing the new procedure for a number of years, testing in on the ground, and discussing it with the cosmonauts.

"In the future we plan to use this shortened version for manned "Soyuz" missions, probably as early as March," - said the expert.

"Progress" delivered to the ISS more than two and a half tons of cargo, including food, water, air and oxygen tanks, sanitary facilities. The crew also received parcels from families and psychologists, reports ITAR-TASS.

Source: Voice of Russia