New stunning images have documented the instant NASA astronauts embarked on their journey to the International Space Station (ISS) in the latest space mission.
Today, four astronauts, NASA’s Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, Sophie Adenot from the European Space Agency (ESA), and Andrey Fedyaev from Russian Roscosmos, took off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft mounted on a Falcon 9 rocket. Known as Crew 12, the team comprised both seasoned space travelers and rookies, with Hathaway and Adenot experiencing space for the first time today.
As they made their way to the orbital spacecraft this afternoon, some of the astronauts shared profound reflections on the experience.
Commander Jessica Meir described the flight as “quite the ride,” emphasizing that “We have left the Earth but the Earth has not left us.” Airforce helicopter pilot Sophie Adenot, aged 43, who has pursued a dream inspired by France’s first female astronaut, Claudie Haigneré, highlighted that the flight represents “one small moment in exploring our world and beyond.” Adenot also stressed the importance of unity and forward-thinking for humanity’s progress.
Jack Hathaway expressed confidence in the mission, noting that the astronauts can “fly with confidence because we know the finest minds on Earth are watching our backs.”
The images captured the rocket’s departure from Florida earlier today, showcasing the spectacular light display as the spacecraft ascended into the upper atmosphere. Additionally, glimpses inside the cabin revealed the astronauts bracing against the intense forces and experiencing weightlessness for the first time.
Following the successful launch, the astronauts are now awaiting a 34-hour journey inside their capsule to dock with the ISS.
The team comprised astronauts from NASA, the ESA, and Roscosmos
The SpaceX-built spacecraft took off from Cape Canaveral in Florida
A dramatic cloud of smoke and flames marked the rocket’s journey into space
Impressive time-lapse images captured the rocket’s trajectory through space
The photos depicted the powerful rockets propelling the astronauts into space
This February 13 launch marks the first space mission accomplished on Friday the 13th, according to mission officials
The booster glowed red as it propelled the rocket into space
Interior shots from inside the SpaceX craft also showcased the four astronauts
