Next Crew of Astronauts Arrives at Launch Site for Future Space Mission

Upon arrival, Crew-11 commander Zena Cardman expressed excitement, stating, “Being here at Kennedy Space Center makes everything feel real. As we get closer to launch, it’s becoming more tangible.”

Four astronauts walk on a tarmac toward a microphone stand — The four members of SpaceX’s Crew 11 walk and wave before their launch at Kennedy Space Center on Saturday, July 26, 2025.

The team is scheduled to launch aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon “Endeavour,” utilizing a Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center on Thursday, July 31, at 12:09 p.m. EDT. If all goes according to plan, they will arrive at the International Space Station by Saturday, August 2, to join the station’s Expedition 73 crew.

Mike Fincke, the crew’s pilot, shared his enthusiasm, recalling previous missions: “It’s great to be back. The last time I landed here was aboard space shuttle Endeavour, and now we’re heading on another Endeavour, this time a Dragon.” Mission officials announced on Friday that preparations for launch are proceeding smoothly following a final review.