The NASA SpaceX Crew-9 Mission, aimed at bringing Sunita Williams back to Earth, has launched successfully from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The Dragon capsule was launched using the Falcon-9 rocket. Initially scheduled for a September 24, 2024 launch, the mission faced weather delays, eventually launching on September 28.
Originally, the mission was intended to send four astronauts, but now only two will embark, ensuring Sunita and Butch Wilmore can return. The two astronauts left behind have been reassigned to the next mission. Initially, the mission commander was Jenna Cardman. Pilot Nick Hague, Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson, and Russian Cosmonaut Mission Specialist Alexander Gorbunov were set to participate.
Currently, only two male astronauts: the Russian cosmonaut and Alexander Gorbunov, along with pilot Nick Hague, are participating. Jenna Cardman and Stephanie Wilson have been reassigned to future missions.
Nick Hague ascends as Mission Commander, Starliner replaces Dragon
Previously a mission pilot, Nick Hague is now the mission commander. Alexander's profile remains unchanged. As preparations are made for Crew-9's Dragon capsule to dock at the space station, the Starliner has been brought back to Earth to make room for the Dragon's docking. The craft is expected to reach the space station within approximately seven hours.
Source: aajtak
Understanding the Crew-9 Space Mission
This mission is part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program. In collaboration with SpaceX, it represents the 9th rotational mission to the space station, facilitating ample research and accurate weather data deliveries to the world. For over two decades, there has always been an astronaut onboard the International Space Station, hence why missions are continually sent.
What is the Dragon Capsule, and how will Sunita return?
SpaceX's Dragon crew capsule, since its inception, has launched 46 times and has journeyed 42 times to the International Space Station. It has been reflown 25 times. The capsule can seat up to seven astronauts at once. As a pioneering private spacecraft, the Dragon has shuttled astronauts and cargo to and from the space station. The empty capsule weighs 7,700 kilograms.
Source: aajtak
With cargo and astronauts, the Dragon's maximum weight capacity is 12,500 kg. It can transport 6,000 kg to an orbit and 3,307 kg to and from the space station, usually accommodating between 2 and 4 astronauts, with room for seven in emergencies.
Autonomously enduring in orbit for 10 days
An independent flight in Earth's lower orbit can persist for ten days. However, if attached to the space station, it can last up to 210 days. The Dragon crew capsule has a 15-foot height, extending to 26.7 feet when including its propulsion system. Inside, it offers a 13-foot diameter with a 12-foot width. SpaceX has produced several variants, totaling 12 Dragon capsules: 6 crew, 3 cargo, and 3 prototypes.
Source: aajtak
Currently, 8 operational Dragon capsules for astronauts
There are currently 8 operational Dragon capsules, with four designated for crew transport to and from the space station, three for cargo transport, and one prototype. Three have been retired: one crew and two prototypes.
A consistent flight of success since 2019
The Dragon capsule's first unmanned flight took place on March 2, 2019, followed by a manned launch on May 20, 2020. Its inaugural cargo flight occurred on December 6, 2020. Typically launched with SpaceX's Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket, the craft requires 2,563 kilograms of fuel to journey to and from the space station.
