SpaceX Launches Crew to ISS Following Previous Team’s Medical Evacuation
On February 13, 2026, SpaceX successfully launched its Crew-12 mission from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This mission follows a recent evacuation of the prior crew due to a medical emergency. NASA confirmed that the launch occurred at precisely 5:15 a.m.
Mission Details
The Crew-12 mission is notable for its timing, as it occurred nearly a month after an earlier crew was brought back for health reasons. The spacecraft is expected to dock autonomously with the International Space Station’s Harmony module about 34 hours after liftoff, at 3:15 p.m. on February 14, while traveling at speeds around 17,000 miles per hour.
Astronauts on Board
Aboard the Dragon spacecraft are four astronauts:
- Jessica Meir (NASA)
- Jack Hathaway (NASA)
- Sophie Adenot (European Space Agency)
- Andrey Fedyaev (Roscosmos)
Significance of the Launch
This flight marks the twelfth crew rotation for SpaceX under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. The Crew-12 team will engage in essential scientific research and technology demonstrations aimed at preparing for future missions to the Moon and Mars while also delivering benefits to life on Earth.
Context of Recent Events
Before this launch, NASA made a groundbreaking decision to return Crew-11 earlier than planned due to a medical incident involving a crew member on January 7. This marked an unprecedented move in the history of the International Space Station, which has been operational for over 25 years. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman described the health of astronauts as a top priority, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to safety in space missions.
Looking Ahead
The Crew-12 launch signals a continued commitment to space exploration and safety. NASA is simultaneously preparing for the Artemis 2 mission, set to open its launch window in early March. This underscores the agency’s proactive approach to managing crewed missions successfully.
