Watch NASA’s SpaceX CRS-26 Launch to the Space Station (Official NASA Broadcast - Nov. 22 Attempt) | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

The launch of SpaceX's CRS-26 mission to the International Space Station has been postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions.

Key Insights

• 👾 Weather conditions, specifically the risk of lightning, can have a significant impact on launch schedules and the safety of space missions.
• 👨‍🔬 Resupply missions like CRS-26 are essential for maintaining the supplies and conducting research on the International Space Station.
• 🥺 Student-led experiments play a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge and developing technologies for space exploration.

Transcript

thank you Dragon isn't countdown Falcon 9 is in startup Dragon SpaceX go for launch foreign you are looking live at launch complex 39a at Kennedy Space Center we are just about 24 minutes away from liftoff of this Falcon 9 for the 26th Commercial resupply Services Mission from both NASA and SpaceX to the International Space Station good afternoon a... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: Why was the CRS-26 launch postponed?

The launch was postponed due to concerns about weather conditions, specifically the risk of triggering lightning, which could be damaging to the rocket and pose a safety risk.

Q: What is the significance of the roll-out solar arrays?

The roll-out solar arrays, known as I-Rosas, will increase the power on the space station by 20 to 30 percent. This increase in power is crucial for future deep space missions and the sustainability of long-duration space travel.

Q: What are some of the student-led experiments on the CRS-26 mission?

One experiment involves testing a piezoelectric material in a vacuum to understand how wounds heal in microgravity. Another experiment focuses on 3D printing structures using resin in space to address the challenges of launch mass and volume.

Q: When is the next launch attempt for CRS-26?

The next launch attempt is scheduled for Saturday, November 26th, at 2:20 PM Eastern Time. If necessary, there will be another attempt on Sunday, November 27th, at 1:58 PM Eastern Time.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• SpaceX's CRS-26 mission is a resupply mission to the International Space Station, delivering over 7,700 pounds of food supplies and science experiments.

• The mission includes the deployment of roll-out solar arrays to increase the station's power and the growth of tomato plants to support fresh food production in space.

• Several student-led experiments, including testing a material for space telescopes and 3D printing structures in space, are also part of the mission.