A SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft successfully launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, transporting two new crew members to the International Space Station (ISS). After several delays, notably due to Hurricane Helene, the mission took off at 1:17 p.m. ET on Saturday, September 28.
Launched atop a Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex-40, the Crew-9 mission includes NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov. It’s notable that this Dragon launch is carrying only two crew members, a departure from the usual four. The extra seats are being kept for NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who are currently aboard the ISS after their arrival on the inaugural crewed test flight of the Boeing Starliner.
NASA opted not to have Wilmore and Williams return home on the Starliner due to issues with its thrusters. Instead, they will remain on the station until Crew-9 returns in February 2025 via the Dragon spacecraft.
The crew configuration adjustments were necessary as the launch was initially slated for August. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson commended the team on a successful launch, stating, “This mission required a lot of operational and planning flexibility. I wish Nick and Aleksandr safe travels to the space station.” He also praised the collaboration between NASA, its commercial partners, and international allies for their capability to adapt to unexpected challenges without compromising safety.
Hague and Gorbunov are set to arrive at the ISS on Sunday afternoon, September 29, joining the Expedition 72 crew, which currently consists of nine individuals—six from NASA and three from Roscosmos. The astronauts will be welcomed with a ceremony upon their arrival.
Nasa plans to livestream the docking of the Dragon with the ISS, along with the subsequent hatch opening and welcome festivities. Coverage will begin at 3:30 p.m. ET on Sunday on NASA’s YouTube channel.