NASA delays Crew-13 launch after leak found on SpaceX Dragon
NASA and SpaceX have postponed the Crew-13 mission to the International Space Station due to an oxidizer leak discovered in the Dragon spacecraft's propulsion system. Engineers are currently conducting tests and repairs to ensure the vehicle is safe for flight before setting a new launch date.
Why it matters
Ensuring the safety of crewed spaceflight is critical for the continued operation of the International Space Station and the future of commercial space travel.
NASA and SpaceX have delayed the planned launch of Crew-13 to the International Space Station after engineers discovered an oxidizer leak in the propulsion system of the mission's Dragon spacecraft.
The issue was found during routine spacecraft processing ahead of launch. An oxidizer is a chemical that helps fuel burn inside a rocket or spacecraft propulsion system, making it an essential part of the vehicle's ability to maneuver.
NASA and SpaceX teams are now carrying out additional testing and reviewing data from the spacecraft. Any repairs or other required work will be completed before Dragon is cleared to fly. NASA has not yet announced a new target launch date.
NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins and Luke Delaney will serve as commander and pilot of Crew-13, respectively.
They will fly alongside CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Joshua Kutryk and Roscosmos cosmonaut Sergey Teteryatnikov, who will serve as mission specialists.
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