Americans and Russians launch to the International Space Station

Departure had previously been postponed for several days due to the effects of Storm Helen. The weather was still the biggest concern Saturday. Rain and storms shortly before the start meant risk. The Crew Dragon is expected to arrive at the International Space Station on Sunday. There, the crew will conduct scientific experiments over several months as part of its mission. Among other things, experiments will be carried out on the physics of supernova explosions, on cells and on plant growth conditions, which will also provide important insights into life on Earth.

In fact, astronauts Zena Cardman and Stephanie Wilson were supposed to be part of the now-launched “Crew 9.” However, they had to vacate their seats so that astronauts Sonny Williams and Barry Wilmore, who were stranded on the International Space Station due to technical problems with the Starliner spacecraft, could be returned to Earth.

Williams and Willmore were actually supposed to spend about a week aboard the ISS. However, due to technical problems with the Starliner vehicle they traveled to the International Space Station in June, NASA then decided to return the spacecraft to Earth empty. Williams and Willmore are now scheduled to return to Earth with Hague and Gorbonau in February.