SpaceX Completes In-Situ Repair on Crew Dragon Before Crew-13 Launch

What happened
SpaceX performed a valve replacement on the Crew Dragon spacecraft just before the launch of NASA's Crew-13 mission.
The Context
- Safety First: The repair was conducted without draining the propellant system, ensuring safety protocols were upheld under Space Force oversight.
- Mission Milestone: Crew-13 marks the 13th long-duration mission under a multibillion-dollar contract, reinforcing U.S. crewed spaceflight capabilities.
- Future Focus: SpaceX is transitioning from Crew Dragon operations to focus on Starship and Starlink, with plans to wind down Crew Dragon by 2030.
The Number
— This is the total value of NASA's contract with SpaceX for 17 crew missions to the ISS, highlighting the financial stakes and ongoing commitment to human spaceflight.
Takeaway
With the Crew-13 mission successfully underway, expect continued advancements in commercial space travel and potential new opportunities for professionals in the aerospace industry.
Reports on science policy, discoveries, and public debate in the scientific realm.
"The Guardian’s science section is known for thoughtful and critical reporting on global research, ethics, and public understanding of science."
— A47 Editor
SpaceX flight led by first Black female commander sets US speed record
SpaceX successfully launched a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday, completing an eight-hour flight that set a US speed record. The mission was commanded by Jessica Watkins, marking her as the first Black woma...
In-depth reporting on tech, policy, and science including AI.
"Respected analysis for technically savvy readers, including AI topics."
— A47 Editor
SpaceX describes surgical intervention before launch of latest crew mission
SpaceX has detailed a surgical intervention that took place prior to the launch of its latest crew mission, Crew-13, which marked a significant milestone as Jessica Watkins became the first Black woman to lead a mission into space.
In-depth coverage of hardware, software, science, and policy.
"Ars Technica provides expert technology news, hardware reviews, and analysis for a technically savvy audience."
— A47 Editor
SpaceX describes surgical intervention before launch of latest crew mission
SpaceX has detailed a surgical intervention that took place prior to the launch of its latest crew mission, Crew-13, which marked a significant milestone as Jessica Watkins became the first Black woman to lead a mission into space.
Corporate leadership, finance, technology, and market trends.
"Fortune covers financial trends, leadership, and innovation with a pragmatic editorial approach."
— A47 Editor
SpaceX sends 4 astronauts to the International Space Station on a record-fast 8-hour trip
SpaceX successfully launched four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) in a record-fast eight-hour trip. Among the crew, Jessica Watkins made history as the first Black woman to lead a mission aboard the ISS, where they will spend six ...
Top international stories selected by The Guardian editors.
"The Guardian is known for its progressive editorial stance and in-depth analysis."
— A47 Editor
SpaceX launches crew to ISS successfully: ‘Thanks for an amazing ride’
SpaceX successfully launched a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) on Thursday, including Jessica Watkins, the first Black woman to lead a crew to orbit. This mission follows a three-week delay due to a leaking fuel syste...