What's Happening?
NASA's SpaceX Crew-12, consisting of NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev, is set to launch to the International Space Station
(ISS). The crew is currently secured inside the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, preparing for their mission. Scheduled for liftoff at 5:15 a.m. EST on February 13, 2026, the team will conduct communication checks, inspect their spacesuits, and prepare for launch procedures. The mission is expected to take approximately 34 hours to reach the ISS, with docking planned for 3:15 p.m. on February 14. This mission will bring the total number of crew members aboard the ISS to seven, representing NASA, ESA, and Roscosmos.
Why It's Important?
The launch of NASA's SpaceX Crew-12 is a significant event in international space collaboration, highlighting the ongoing partnership between NASA, ESA, and Roscosmos. This mission underscores the importance of international cooperation in space exploration and the continued utilization of the ISS as a platform for scientific research and technological development. The successful launch and docking of Crew-12 will ensure the continuation of critical experiments and research conducted in microgravity, contributing to advancements in various scientific fields. Additionally, the mission demonstrates the reliability and capability of SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft in supporting human spaceflight, reinforcing its role in NASA's commercial crew program.
What's Next?
Following the successful launch and docking of Crew-12, the astronauts will begin their mission aboard the ISS, engaging in a range of scientific experiments and maintenance activities. The crew's work will support ongoing research in areas such as biology, physics, and Earth science, contributing to a better understanding of the effects of long-duration spaceflight on the human body and the development of new technologies. The mission will also involve preparations for future space exploration endeavors, including potential missions to the Moon and Mars. Updates on the mission's progress will be provided through NASA's communication channels.
