Get ready for an exhilarating display of technology and teamwork as SpaceX prepares to launch its Crew-9 astronaut mission for NASA this Saturday, September 28! Live coverage of this groundbreaking event will be available online, so make sure you don't miss out.

The highly anticipated liftoff is scheduled for 1:17 PM EDT (1717 GMT) from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Launch Complex-40 in Florida. This historical event marks the first crewed launch from this particular site, showcasing SpaceX's continued partnership with NASA in advancing space exploration. Excitement is building as you can stream the action live right here at Space.com, courtesy of NASA.

Meet the Crew

Onboard the Falcon 9 rocket is Crew Dragon, carrying NASA astronaut Nick Hague and cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov from the Russian space agency Roscosmos. These intrepid explorers are set for a remarkable five-month journey aboard the International Space Station (ISS), where they will contribute to a myriad of crucial scientific experiments and research. Their mission will conclude in February when they return to Earth alongside NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore.

As part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, Crew-9 typically transports four astronauts; however, with the departure of Zena Cardman and Stephanie Wilson from the roster, the capsule’s capacity will allow for safely returning Williams and Wilmore, who were expected to remain at the ISS longer than planned due to Boeing’s Starliner encountering thruster issues.

A Delay Worth Waiting For

Originally slated for September 26, the launch was postponed to ensure safety measures were in place following Hurricane Helene, which swept through Florida’s Gulf Coast as a Category 3 storm. Thankfully, the Cape Canaveral region, while affected, is ready for this monumental flight.

Get Involved!

You can actively follow all launch activities on Space.com, where updates will be posted in real-time. Here’s a glimpse at the launch schedule:

- **September 27:** Prelaunch news conference at 5 PM EDT (2100 GMT) featuring key figures from NASA and SpaceX.

- **September 28:** Launch-day coverage kicks off at 9:10 AM EDT (1310 GMT) leading up to the spectacular liftoff at 1:17 PM EDT (1717 GMT). Following the launch, be sure to tune in for a postlaunch press conference at 3 PM EDT (1900 GMT).

Ready for Launch?

Mark your calendars and prepare the popcorn because this is not just any launch; it’s paving the way for humanity's future in space! Catch this historic moment as space enthusiasts across the globe unite in awe of what NASA and SpaceX can achieve together.

Stay tuned for insider updates and riveting facts about the Crew-9 mission! 🚀✨