All eyes are set on the weather forecast for Thursday morning, as Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Joshua Kutryk readies himself for the journey to the International Space Station (ISS). Kutryk, aged 44, will serve as a mission specialist for NASA’s Crew-13 mission to the ISS, alongside Russian cosmonaut Sergey Teteryatnikov from Roscosmos. Leading the mission will be NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins as commander and Luke Delaney as the pilot. They will be traveling to space aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon.
The weather outlook at Cape Canaveral, Fla., suggests some variability with chances of showers and potential thunderstorms. Initially slated to fly on a Boeing CST-100 Starliner, Kutryk was reassigned to SpaceX following significant setbacks experienced by Boeing.
Recent reports have highlighted a potential issue on the ISS concerning the Canadarm2, a vital component for spacecraft activities and spacewalks. The robotic arm encountered communication errors after a maneuver, prompting NASA and SpaceX to work on resolving any potential GPS interference during docking with the Crew Dragon.
During a press conference, Lorie Glaze, NASA’s associate administrator for human spaceflight, expressed confidence in the crew’s readiness for the mission. Dana Weigel, manager of the Low Earth Orbit Program, also conveyed the crew’s enthusiasm and preparedness for the upcoming space journey.
The mission follows closely after CSA astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s participation in the Artemis II mission, underscoring Canada’s significant contributions to space exploration. The crew is scheduled for a traditional walk-out from their quarantine facility before proceeding to the launch pad for preparations.
Notably, Kutryk’s wife, Heather, is expected to give birth to their third child while he is in orbit. The crew aims to rendezvous with the ISS shortly after launch, with expectations for a swift journey of around eight hours. In case of unfavorable weather conditions on Thursday, the next launch opportunity is set for Friday morning.
As preparations intensify, Kutryk’s colleagues and CSA officials affirm his readiness and high spirits for the mission ahead. The team remains optimistic about a successful launch and a safe journey to the International Space Station.
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