SpaceX Falcon 9 Launches Axiom Space Astronauts to International Space Station

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SpaceX and Axiom Space launch four civilian astronauts to the International Space Station Sunday, against a partly cloudy sky that blocked the view for some spectators on land.

When and where is the launch?

-The SpaceX Falcon 9 took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s Atlantic coast.

-It launched at 5:37 p.m. EDT Sunday.

-The rocket’s booster landed at the adjacent Cape Canaveral Air Force Station about 8 minutes later, providing a treat for spectators.

-Weather was 60% go ahead of the launch, according to launch day forecast from the U.S. Space Force’s 45th Weather Squadron.

-Some popular viewing areas in nearby Cocoa Beach were expected to be crowded due to a weekend boat race.

Weather.com senior meteorologist Jonathan Erdman added, before the launch:

-“We’re now entering Florida’s wet season, when scattered thunderstorms become virtually a daily concern, especially in the afternoon.”

-“That said, we expect most of Sunday afternoon’s thunderstorms to be west of the Space Coast, as the sea-breeze front pushes inland.”

-“If the Sunday launch is scrubbed, Monday’s forecast looks more complicated, with a better chance of more numerous thunderstorms in Florida, potentially including Cape Canaveral.”

-Houston-based Axiom Space aims to eventually build the world’s first commercial space station.

-The mission, called AX-2, is the second all-private mission to the ISS.

-The four-person international crew is led by former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, who has spent a total of 665 days in space.

-Research during their eight days at the ISS will include taking images of thunderstorms, lightning and transient luminous events, or TLEs, also known as sprites, elves or blue jets.

Want more of our space coverage?

-READ: Photo Captures Boy's Joy Of Seeing Starship Launch

-READ: SpaceX Falcon Heavy Launches From Florida After Weather Clears

-READ: SpaceX Falcon 9 Launches Satellite To Monitor Air Pollution

-​READ: Suspected Meteorite Crashes Into New Jersey Home

J​an Childs covers space, climate, news and features for weather.com

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