SpaceX Crew-11 Astronauts Arrive at Kennedy Space Center Ahead of ISS Launch
The four astronauts of SpaceX's Crew-11 mission have reached Kennedy Space Center in preparation for their upcoming launch to the International Space Station, marking a key step in international space collaboration.
The four-member Crew-11 team for SpaceX's next mission to the International Space Station arrived at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on July 26, 2025. The crew, consisting of NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, Kimiya Yui from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and Oleg Platonov from Roscosmos, traveled from Houston's Ellington Field to begin final preparations for their scheduled launch on July 31.
The astronauts are set to launch aboard SpaceX’s Dragon Endeavour spacecraft atop a Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at 12:09 p.m. EDT. Their mission will see them join Expeditions 73 and 74 aboard the ISS, continuing the partnership between NASA, JAXA, Roscosmos, and SpaceX in advancing scientific research and international cooperation in space.
Upon arrival, Crew-11 commander Zena Cardman noted the significance of the moment, stating, "We are absolutely joyed to be here at Kennedy Space Center... This is the first moment when it’s really starting to feel real."
Mike Fincke, the mission's pilot, reflected on his return to Kennedy, recalling his previous experience with the space shuttle program and expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming launch on Dragon Endeavour. The mission highlights the evolution of spaceflight, combining the legacy of past programs with new commercial technology. Crew-11’s work on the ISS will focus on scientific experiments and furthering international collaboration in space exploration.
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