SpaceX launches 13th long-duration astronaut crew to International Space Station - Reuters

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at 11:10 a.m. EDT on Thursday, carrying the Crew‑13 mission to the International Space Station.

The crew consists of four astronauts: two from the United States, one from Canada and one from Russia. The American astronauts are designated as part of NASA’s long‑duration flight roster, while the Canadian and Russian members represent their respective national space agencies.

The mission is a science expedition focused on studying human health and performance in the microgravity environment of the station. Experiments will address physiological changes, medical monitoring, and operational performance to support future long‑duration spaceflight.

A NASA spokesperson described the launch as “another demonstration of America’s unmatched capability in human spaceflight and the strength of our commercial partnerships.” The statement highlighted the role of the public‑private partnership between NASA and SpaceX in delivering crewed missions.

Crew‑13 will join the existing International Space Station crew for a multi‑month stay, continuing the station’s ongoing research agenda and maintaining its role as a platform for international cooperation in space exploration.