Four-Person Crew Launches Toward International Space Station
Jessica Watkins commands a SpaceX mission carrying two NASA astronauts, a Canadian astronaut and a Russian cosmonaut to the space station.
A four-person crew launched aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule on a mission to the International Space Station, NPR and The Guardian reported.
According to NPR, the crew includes two NASA astronauts, an astronaut from Canada and a Russian cosmonaut. Liftoff took place at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
The Guardian identified the commander as Jessica Watkins, reporting that she is the first Black woman to lead a crew to orbit and is making her second trip to the station. The mission is set to last until spring.
The Guardian also reported that the launch followed a three-week delay while the capsule’s leaking fuel system was repaired. Thick clouds threatened the countdown, but conditions cleared sufficiently for a safe liftoff.
Separately, The Guardian reported that the Canadian astronaut’s wife will give birth during his absence; NPR’s supplied account did not include that detail.
Sources
More coverage
Parkinson’s Drug Finding Prompts Call for Clinical Trials
BBC News reported doctors seek trials following Patrick’s Parkinson’s-drug finding.
Two Sea Spider Species Discovered Along Canada’s Coast
NPR reported two new sea spider species along Canada’s coastline.
Closed Copper Mine’s Reclamation Work Recognised After 30 Years
Mine operators were honoured at a small ceremony in British Columbia for continuing to fund reclamation and monitoring after mining ended, Good News Network reported. The outlet described recognition…
Ross Island Wind Turbines Cut Antarctic Diesel Use
Antarctica’s Ross Island Wind Farm reduced diesel consumption by roughly 122,000 gallons over 15 years while powering McMurdo Station, Good News Network reported. The outlet said the three turbines…