On September 4, 10:39, Moscow time, Soyuz TMA-18M manned spacecraft successfully docked with the ISS. Soyuz TMA-18M approached Poisk small research module of Russian ISS segment in automatic mode under Soyuz crew, ISS crew commander and TsENKI specialists control.

Roscosmos launching crews successfully launched Soyuz TMA-18M spacecraft from #1 launchpad of Baikonur spaceport (Gagarin launch) on September 2, 07.37, Moscow time. It was the 500th launch accomplished from Gagarin launchpad. The spacecraft was launched by Soyuz-FG booster.

For safety reasons new ISS crew will approach and dock with station in accordance with the traditional 2-days scheme, - Roscosmos reported.

ISS reboost maneuver that has been cancelled earlier will take place on August 31, - Mission control Centre representative reported.

On August 20 the cosmonauts raised flags of the countries taking part in Soyuz TMA-18M spacecraft launch.

On August 19, 1960 at 12.44.06, Moscow time, fifth space device Sputnik-5 with belka and Strelka dogs onboard was launched from Baikonur spaceport.

According to Roscosmos both main and back-up crew of new ISS mission arrived in Baikonur.

Russian space industry specialists unloaded the vehicle and installed it on the special facility of #254 integration building at Baikonur spaceport.

Interdepartmental Commission approved main and back-up crews of new ISS mission for the flight, - GCTC spokesman reported.

Russian ISS crew mwmbers Gennady padalka and Mikhail Korniyenko are going will open the hatch of Pirs docking compartment today at 17.14, Moscow time.