The joint Crew 8 mission by SpaceX and NASA successfully launched to the International Space Station from NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Sunday. This marked SpaceX’s eighth crew rotation mission to the ISS in NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, after two previous launch attempts were scrapped due to bad weather.
Despite a small crack in the hatch seal, engineers determined it was not a significant issue and the mission lifted off at 10:53 p.m. The crew on the ground celebrated as the Dragon spacecraft took off into space shortly before 11 p.m.
The mission crew consists of Commander Matthew Dominick, Pilot Michael Barratt, Mission Specialist Janet Epps, and Russian Cosmonaut Alexander Grebenkin. Barratt is the only member with previous ISS experience, having visited twice before.
Launched by a Falcon 9 rocket, the Dragon spacecraft is described as a “reusable two-stage rocket,” marking a milestone in reusable rocket technology. The crew is scheduled to spend six months on the ISS before returning in the fall.
Experiments on the ISS include studying stem cells, plant cellular effects in microgravity, and the use of compression bands to reduce health issues caused by weightlessness. Spirulina, a microalgae, is also being tested for its potential to remove carbon dioxide from the air and provide nutrients to astronauts.
With nearly 100 launches in the past year, SpaceX has had a busy schedule. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson emphasized the importance of maintaining safety and vigilance in spaceflight, highlighting the risks and challenges of each mission.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
