Crew-13 Mission Successfully Launches to ISS

The mission, carrying four crew members to the International Space Station, utilized the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and initiated its journey precisely at 11:10 AM ET.

The Falcon 9's first stage, powered by nine Merlin engines, generated 1.7 million pounds of thrust, confirming nominal propulsion after liftoff.

The vehicle pitched downrange to increase speed and successfully passed through Max Q, the point of maximum structural load, ensuring the integrity of the spacecraft and crew.

The single Merlin vacuum (MVAC) engine on the second stage then ignited to continue the orbital insertion, while the first stage began its boost back burn toward Earth.

Throughout the ascent phase, the crew experienced forces exceeding 2 Gs, a testament to the powerful acceleration of the Falcon 9.

Commander Jessica Watkins led the crew aboard the Dragon spacecraft, which will eventually accelerate to over 17,000 mph to achieve stable orbit, with grid fins providing proper attitude control.

The next critical milestone will be the entry burn, which utilizes three of the nine Merlin 1D engines to effectively slow the vehicle for re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.

At 6 minutes into flight, the Falcon 9 reached a speed of over 7,300 mph, experiencing 1.5g of force as it began its descent.

Three engines ignited for the entry burn, slowing the craft within the atmosphere, with the atmosphere scrubbing approximately 70% of the vehicle's velocity before the booster performed a final 15-second landing burn to touch down at Landing Zone 40.

The Merlin vacuum engine propelled the crew to 13,300 mph, with astronauts experiencing 3g before the second stage engine cutoff (SECO) confirmed nominal orbital insertion.

Small reaction thrusters on the second stage stabilized the craft, allowing for the successful separation of the Dragon spacecraft from the Falcon 9, beginning its independent flight.

Following the successful insertion into orbit, the launch escape system was disarmed, indicating a safe and stable trajectory for the crew.

Astronauts Jessica Watkins and Luke Delaney extended their heartfelt thanks to the SpaceX and NASA ground teams for their dedicated efforts.

The crew also paid tribute to their families, friends, and their respective space agencies, with Joshua Kutryk noting the surreal sensation of finally being in space, as they prepared to transition to Expedition 75 operations.

Jessica Watkins acknowledged the hard work and perseverance of the teams responsible for ensuring the spacecraft, nicknamed Grace, was safe and ready to fly.

Luke Delaney emphasized the mission's crucial role in continuing the human presence in orbit, honoring past legacies while paving the way for future space exploration.

Joshua Kutryk expressed his disbelief at reaching space, acknowledging NASA, the CSA, and the RCAF, and dedicated the upcoming mission to his family, specifically Heather, Peter, and Nana.

The Crew-13 astronauts confirmed the spacecraft was having a successful day in orbit, with all systems functioning as expected.

Initial operations included the nominal activation of the dehumidifier and ongoing checkout procedures for the service section Draco thrusters.