Image Source: WESH
Rocket launch today delivered four astronauts safely into orbit after Crew-13 lifted off from Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s Space Coast Thursday morning. The launch came at 11:10 a.m. EDT on October 1, 2026, following hours of uncertainty caused by changing weather conditions.
As of 11 a.m., forecasters estimated a 60% chance that the mission could launch. Despite the concern, the countdown continued and the rocket left the ground on schedule, beginning its journey toward the International Space Station.
Rocket Launch Today Sends Crew-13 Into Space
The successful liftoff marked an important milestone for NASA, SpaceX and the international team supporting the mission. After stage separation, the Falcon 9 first-stage booster also completed a successful landing at Landing Zone 40.
That recovery is a key part of SpaceX’s reusable rocket program. Returning the booster safely can help reduce the cost and turnaround time of future space missions while supporting a steady launch schedule from Florida.
Meet the Four Astronauts Flying Crew-13
The Crew-13 team includes astronauts and cosmonauts from three space organizations. NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins and Luke Delaney are serving as the spacecraft’s commander and pilot.
- Jessica Watkins, NASA commander and geologist
- Luke Delaney, NASA pilot and former DeBary resident
- Joshua Kutryk, Canadian Space Agency mission specialist
- Sergey Teteryatnikov, Roscosmos mission specialist
Watkins also has a Central Florida connection. She is the cousin of former WESH 2 reporter Christina Watkins. Delaney grew up in DeBary and graduated from Deltona High School in 1997, giving the mission a strong local connection for residents watching from Central Florida.
The crew arrived at Kennedy Space Center shortly before launch after traveling from Johnson Space Center in Houston. In the days before liftoff, the astronauts completed quarantine procedures and final preflight operations.
Powerful Research Awaits at the International Space Station
After docking with the space station, Crew-13 will join the Expedition 75 team. The astronauts will assist with station maintenance, daily operations, scientific investigations and technology demonstrations.
Much of the mission’s research will focus on how the human body responds to extended periods in microgravity. NASA says the results could help researchers develop better protections for astronauts traveling beyond low Earth orbit, including future missions to the Moon and Mars.
One study, called Venous Haemostasis, will examine circulation, blood flow and clotting risks in space. Crew members will provide blood samples, undergo ultrasounds and record blood pressure readings before, during and after the mission.
Another investigation, Manual Piloting, will test how well astronauts perform difficult lunar-landing simulations after spending months in microgravity. Researchers will also evaluate whether refresher training before landing improves performance.
The B-Complex study will explore whether daily B-vitamin supplements can help reduce spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, a condition that may affect astronauts’ eyes and vision. Participants will take supplements and complete regular vision tests.
Science Designed for Future Moon and Mars Missions
Crew-13 will also contribute to studies involving exercise, spacecraft safety and astronaut health. The Zero T2 investigation will compare the health and performance of crew members who use the station treadmill with those who do not.
The Spacecraft Occupant Risk study will measure the forces astronauts experience during their return and landing. Scientists hope the findings will improve spacecraft hardware, landing procedures and injury prevention.
Additional Expedition 75 research is expected to involve in-space manufacturing, bioprinting, augmented reality and artificial intelligence tools designed to monitor crew health.
Watkins said the International Space Station offers an important platform for observing Earth and preparing for exploration beyond it. The mission’s findings could help shape the way astronauts live, work and stay healthy during longer journeys through space.
Why the Crew-13 Mission Matters
The launch comes as NASA and its international partners continue building experience for future lunar and deep-space exploration. Studying the effects of microgravity now may help crews face the physical and operational challenges of traveling to the Moon, Mars and other destinations.
For Florida’s Space Coast, the launch also highlighted Kennedy Space Center’s continued role as a major gateway to orbit. Visitors were invited to watch the liftoff with live commentary, bleacher seating and access to attractions at the visitor complex.
With Crew-13 now on its way, attention will turn to the spacecraft’s arrival at the station and the months of research ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Crew-13 launch?
Crew-13 launched from Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s Space Coast at 11:10 a.m. EDT on October 1, 2026.
Who is aboard Crew-13?
The crew includes NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins and Luke Delaney, Canadian Space Agency astronaut Joshua Kutryk, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Sergey Teteryatnikov.
Where is Crew-13 going?
Crew-13 is traveling to the International Space Station, where the astronauts will join the Expedition 75 team.
What will Crew-13 study?
The mission will investigate human health in microgravity, blood circulation, vision, exercise, lunar landing skills, spacecraft safety and other technologies.
Did the Falcon 9 booster land successfully?
Yes. The Falcon 9 first-stage booster successfully landed at Landing Zone 40 after stage separation.
