However, Tropical Cyclone Nine, approaching the Gulf of Mexico and Florida, might affect the launch.
The Flight Readiness Review at Nasa’s Kennedy Space Center confirmed that SpaceX’s crew transportation system and the space station are ready. Once launched, the astronauts will spend about five months conducting experiments and maintenance on the space station.
A Falcon 9 rocket is set to roll out to Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Tuesday, September 24, for a static fire test. A final dress rehearsal will also take place to simulate launch day procedures.
The crew, along with SpaceX and US Space Force’s 45th Weather Squadron, is monitoring Tropical Cyclone Nine closely. The storm could impact the launch schedule, and officials will continue to assess the weather as the launch date nears.
Hague will serve as the mission commander, while Gorbunov will be the mission specialist. “The mission aims to conduct valuable research and experiments aboard the International Space Station,” officials noted.
The launch depends heavily on weather conditions.
Why is Sunita Williams stuck in space?
Sunita Williams and her mission partner, Butch Wilmore, have been aboard the International Space Station since their planned mission began in 2024. However, their stay at the station was extended till February 2025.
The main reason behind this extension was technical failures faced by Boeing Starliner and delays due to a series of malfunctions which was deemed too risky for their return. Hence it was decided to bring them back in 2025, on a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule instead. This meant that the astronauts would have to spend 8 more months till February, aboard the ISS.
According to Nasa officials, commitment to safety is the core of the organization. Nasa Administrator Bill Nelson said, “The decision to keep Butch and Suni aboard the International Space Station and bring Boeing’s Starliner home uncrewed is the result of our commitment to safety.”