* May 22/Launch Day: SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket launches a Dragon spacecraft into orbit from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
* May 23: Dragon orbits Earth as it travels toward the International Space Station.
* May 24: Dragon's sensors and flight systems are subjected to a series of complicated tests to determine if the vehicle is ready to berth with the space station; these tests include maneuvers and systems checks in which the vehicle comes within 1.5 miles of the station.
* May 25: NASA decides if Dragon is allowed to attempt berthing with the station. If so, Dragon approaches. It is captured by station's robotic arm and attached to the station, a feat that requires extreme precision.
* May 25 - 31: Astronauts open Dragon's hatch, unload supplies and fill Dragon with return cargo.
* May 31: After approximately two weeks, Dragon is detached from the station and returns to Earth, landing in the Pacific, hundreds of miles west of Southern California.
SPACEX
SpaceX designs, manufactures and launches the world's most advanced rockets and spacecraft. In 2010, SpaceX became the first commercial company in history to put a spacecraft into orbit and return it safely to Earth. With the retirement of the space shuttle, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon spacecraft will soon carry cargo, and one day astronauts, to and from the Space Station for NASA.
Founded in 2002 by Elon Musk, SpaceX is a private company owned by management and employees. For more information, visit www.SpaceX.com.