The Progress spacecraft is an automated cargo spacecraft developed by Russia to supply the International Space Station (ISS). It is designed to transport food, equipment, and fuel to support astronauts living and working in space. The spacecraft can carry up to 2.5 tons of cargo and is launched using a Soyuz rocket. Once in orbit, the Progress spacecraft autonomously docks with the ISS, allowing for efficient transfer of supplies. After unloading, it can be used to dispose of waste from the station. The first Progress mission launched in 1978, and it has since become a vital part of space logistics.