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By Hamza

NASA is gearing up for another historic milestone in space exploration with the upcoming launch of the SpaceX Crew-10 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This mission marks the 10th crew rotation flight and the 11th human spaceflight supported by SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft since 2020. Here’s everything you need to know about the launch, docking, and how to watch the event live.

Mission Overview

The Crew-10 mission is set to liftoff at 7:48 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The spacecraft is scheduled to dock at the ISS at approximately 6 a.m. EDT on Thursday, March 13.

Crew-10 astronauts during training
The Crew-10 astronauts during a training session at Kennedy Space Center. Credit: SpaceX

The crew includes:

  • Anne McClain (NASA), spacecraft commander
  • Nichole Ayers (NASA), pilot
  • Takuya Onishi (JAXA), mission specialist
  • Kirill Peskov (Roscosmos), mission specialist

This diverse team of astronauts will spend about four months aboard the ISS, conducting scientific experiments and maintaining the orbiting laboratory.

How to Watch the Launch and Docking

NASA will provide comprehensive coverage of the mission, including prelaunch events, launch, docking, and postlaunch updates. Here’s how you can tune in:

  • NASA+: Stream live coverage of the launch, docking, and welcome ceremony.
  • NASA Website: Follow the mission blog for real-time updates and on-demand videos.
  • Social Media: Watch live streams on NASA Kennedy’s social media accounts and stay updated via @CommercialCrew and @NASAKennedy on X (formerly Twitter).
SpaceX Dragon spacecraft
The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, which will carry the Crew-10 astronauts to the ISS. Credit: SpaceX

Key Events and Schedule

Here’s a breakdown of the mission’s key events (all times Eastern and subject to change):

Friday, March 7

  • 3 p.m.: Crew arrival media event at NASA Kennedy. Watch live on NASA Kennedy’s social media accounts.
  • 5:30 p.m.: Mission overview teleconference. Audio-only coverage will be available.
  • 6:30 p.m.: Crew-10 news conference. Watch live on NASA+.

Wednesday, March 12

  • 3:45 p.m.: Launch coverage begins on NASA+.
  • 7:48 p.m.: Liftoff of the Crew-10 mission.
  • 9:30 p.m.: Postlaunch news conference. Watch live on NASA+.

Thursday, March 13

  • 4:15 a.m.: Arrival coverage begins on NASA+.
  • 6 a.m.: Targeted docking to the ISS.
  • 7:45 a.m.: Hatch opening.
  • 8:20 a.m.: Welcome ceremony.
SpaceX Dragon docking with the ISS
An artist’s depiction of the SpaceX Dragon docking with the ISS. Credit: NASA

Why This Mission Matters

The Crew-10 mission is a testament to the success of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, which partners with private companies like SpaceX to advance human spaceflight. This mission not only strengthens international collaboration but also paves the way for future exploration, including missions to the Moon and Mars.

As someone who’s passionate about space exploration and technology, I find it inspiring to see how far we’ve come since the early days of space travel. The Crew-10 mission is a reminder of humanity’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and discovery.

FAQs

1. What is the purpose of the Crew-10 mission?

The Crew-10 mission aims to transport astronauts to the ISS for a four-month stay, where they will conduct scientific experiments and maintain the station.

2. How can I watch the Crew-10 launch live?

You can watch the launch live on NASA+, the NASA website, or NASA’s social media channels.

3. Who are the astronauts on the Crew-10 mission?

The crew includes Anne McClain (NASA), Nichole Ayers (NASA), Takuya Onishi (JAXA), and Kirill Peskov (Roscosmos).

4. What is the significance of the Commercial Crew Program?

The Commercial Crew Program enables NASA to partner with private companies like SpaceX to transport astronauts to the ISS, reducing costs and fostering innovation.

5. How long will the Crew-10 mission last?

The mission will last approximately four months, after which the astronauts will return to Earth.