SpaceX holds off historic launch for crucial safety checks
SpaceX has announced a 24-hour delay in the launch of its third commercial crew flight to the International Space Station (ISS), initially scheduled for January 17, 2024. This postponement, aimed at allowing additional time for pre-flight data reviews, has rescheduled the launch for January 18, 2024, at 4:49 p.m. EST. The mission, chartered by Axiom Space, is significant for its all-European crew and the advancements it represents in commercial spaceflight.
Jan 17, 2024 | updated: 10:05 AM EST, January 18, 2024
Crew and Mission Overview
The Axiom 3 mission comprises a four-man crew, including retired astronaut Michael López-Alegría, Italian Walter Villadei, Swedish flier Marcus Wandt, and Turkey’s Alper Gezeravci. They will embark on a two-week research mission aboard the orbital outpost. This mission marks a significant step in Axiom Space's business plan of sending paying customers for short ISS trips guided by experienced astronauts. Notably, this mission features an all-European commercial crew, a first in the history of spaceflight.
SpaceX's decision to delay the launch stems from concerns regarding the Crew Dragon's parachute system, specifically the "energy modulator" straps. These straps are designed to ensure controlled deployment of the parachutes, reducing the shock of inflation. A recent inspection revealed some irregularities in their performance, prompting a thorough review and adjustment by SpaceX engineers. Additionally, concerns were raised over the torque of connectors attaching the Crew Dragon to the Falcon 9’s upper stage, leading to their replacement. Benji Reed, SpaceX’s senior director of human spaceflight programs, emphasized the company's commitment to safety, stating that they will only launch "when we're ready".
The mission's planned duration at the International Space Station (ISS) is 14 days, intending to dock the morning after the launch. The crew will participate in over 30 scientific experiments and technology demonstrations. The launch also sets the stage for an eventful year in human spaceflight, with up to six planned missions from the Space Coast in 2024, potentially involving 22 crew members - the most since the end of the Space Shuttle Program. These missions include NASA's Crew-8 mission to the ISS and the first crewed mission of Boeing's CST-100 Starliner.
