All attention will be on the weather on Thursday morning as Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Joshua Kutryk gets ready to embark on a journey to the International Space Station (ISS). Kutryk, aged 44, is set to be a mission specialist for NASA’s Crew-13 mission to the ISS, accompanying Russian cosmonaut Sergey Teteryatnikov from Roscosmos. NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins and Luke Delaney will serve as commander and pilot, respectively, on this mission using SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft.
The weather forecast for Cape Canaveral, Fla., indicates some variability with possible showers and potential thunderstorms during the launch. Originally slated to fly on a Boeing CST-100 Starliner, Kutryk was reassigned to SpaceX following significant setbacks experienced by Boeing.
Meanwhile, concerns arose regarding a potential issue on the ISS related to the Canadarm2 robotic arm, critical for spacecraft capture and spacewalk operations. NASA and SpaceX are collaborating to address any communication errors and ensure smooth docking between Crew Dragon and the station.
During a press conference today, NASA’s associate administrator for human spaceflight, Lorie Glaze, expressed confidence in the crew’s readiness for the mission. Dana Weigel, manager of the Low Earth Orbit Program, also confirmed the crew’s enthusiasm and preparedness for the upcoming journey.
The mission follows closely after CSA astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s participation in the Artemis II mission. Mathieu Caron, director of CSA’s astronaut office, highlighted Canada’s significant contributions to the ISS, particularly emphasizing the role of the mobile servicing system in the station’s construction.
The crew is scheduled to undergo a traditional walk-out from their quarantine facility before proceeding to the launch pad to board the Crew Dragon capsule. Notably, Kutryk’s wife, Heather, is expected to give birth to their third child while he is in space.
If the launch proceeds as planned, the crew is expected to rendezvous with the ISS in a few hours. However, in case of unfavorable weather conditions, the next launch opportunity is scheduled for Friday morning. Emphasizing the importance of readiness, Glaze reiterated the commitment to only launch when all conditions are optimal.
With Kutryk fully prepared and eager for the mission, the team remains hopeful for a successful launch, pending favorable weather conditions.