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NASA SpaceX flight sets speed record in latest ISS launch
The Weather Channel • • science
Key Points:
- Four astronauts, including commander Jessica Watkins, arrived at the International Space Station after an eight-hour express flight, setting a U.S. speed record for transit to orbit.
- The launch, delayed three weeks to repair a leaking fuel system on the Dragon capsule, took place from Cape Canaveral amid clearing skies, marking Watkins as the first Black woman to lead a crew to orbit.
- The crew, designated Crew-13, includes NASA newcomers Luke Delaney, Canadian Joshua Kutryk, whose wife is expecting a child during his mission, and Russian Sergey Teteryatnikov, replacing astronauts who have been on the ISS since February.
- The mission embraces the number 13 as a lucky symbol, with references in their mission patch, launch vehicle plates, and a small lucky dragon mascot, celebrating a safe and swift journey.
- SpaceX continues a busy week with multiple launches, including over 100 mini satellites and a classified National Reconnaissance Office satellite, alongside the recent milestone of the Starship's first orbit.
