On Aug. 1, 2025, the SpaceX Crew-11 astronaut mission launched from NASA’s Kennedy House Heart in Florida, headed for the Worldwide House Station (ISS), which sits in low Earth orbit (LEO) at round 260 miles (418 kilometers) above our planet. As its title suggests, Crew-11 is the eleventh contracted crewed mission that SpaceX has flown to the ISS for NASA, through the company’s Industrial Crew Program.
What’s it?
To make spaceflight more efficient and cost-effective, the spacecraft is reusable, capable of withstanding multiple reentries, and can remain docked at the ISS for extended stays. Launched atop SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, it can carry up to six passengers, though NASA missions typically fly only four crew members alongside cargo and research equipment.
Where is it?
This image was taken from the ISS, while the orbiting lab was over central Pakistan.
Why is it amazing?
Endeavour docked at the ISS Harmony module on Aug. 2, less than 15 hours after launch, the fastest Crew Dragon rendezvous to date.
Crew-11 will keep docked with the station for six to eight months, throughout which era the 4 astronauts will conduct quite a lot of scientific experiments and do upkeep work on the ISS.
The Crew-11 astronauts shall be on board the ISS throughout the twenty fifth anniversary of steady human presence on the station, which is able to happen in early November.
Wish to study extra?
You’ll be able to learn extra about research on the ISS and SpaceX’s Crew-11 mission.