NASA’s SpaceX Crew-11 launched at 3:43 PM UTC on Friday aboard the Dragon spacecraft, propelled by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The launch was initially scheduled for Thursday, July 31, but was scrubbed due to unfavorable weather conditions.
About 15 hours after liftoff, Dragon docked to the space-facing port of the station’s Harmony module. After docking at 6:27 AM UTC on Saturday, the hatches between the Dragon and the ISS opened at 7:46 AM UTC.
The Crew-11 members aboard the spacecraft include NASA’s Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA’s Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos’ Oleg Platonov. During their stay aboard the ISS, Crew-11 will carry out experiments aimed at both deep space missions and real-world benefits.
The crew is tasked with simulating lunar landings, exploring ways to protect astronauts’ vision, and contributing to human spaceflight research under NASA’s Human Research Program. The crew will also examine plant cell division and how microgravity affects bacteria-killing viruses. They will conduct experiments to produce more human stem cells and generate on-demand nutrients.
The agency’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission to the space station is the first step toward our permanent presence on the Moon. NASA, in conjunction with great American companies, continues the mission with Artemis in 2026. — Sean Duffy, Acting NASA Administrator
The mission is part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which partners with private companies to transport astronauts to the ISS, enabling more research and paving the way for future missions beyond low Earth orbit.
Chibuike Okpara – Tech Writer – 86 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2024
I have always been fascinated by technology and digital devices my entire life and even got addicted to it. I have always marveled at the intricacy of even the simplest digital devices and systems around us. I have been writing and publishing articles online for about 6 years now, just about a year ago, I found myself lost in the marvel of smartphones and laptops we have in our hands every day. I developed a passion for learning about new devices and technologies that come with them and at some point, I asked myself, “Why not get into writing tech articles?” It is useless to say I followed up the idea — it is evident. I am an open-minded individual who derives an infinite amount of joy from researching and discovering new information, I believe there is so much to learn and such a short life to live, so I put my time to good use — learning new things. I am a ‘bookworm’ of the internet and digital devices. When I am not writing, you will find me on my devices still, I do explore and admire the beauty of nature and creatures. I am a fast learner and quickly adapt to changes, always looking forward to new adventures.