Sat Sep 28 18:00:34 UTC 2024: ## SpaceX Launches Rescue Mission for Stranded Astronauts at ISS
**CAPE CANAVERAL, FL -** SpaceX successfully launched a rescue mission on Saturday to retrieve two astronauts stranded at the International Space Station (ISS). The mission, carrying NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, will bring home test pilots Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who were left behind when their Boeing Starliner spacecraft experienced safety concerns and returned to Earth empty earlier this month.
The mission was delayed by a month due to the Starliner issues, and the rescue crew will not return until late February. The decision was made to use a SpaceX Dragon capsule instead of trying to bring Wilmore and Williams back earlier, which would have disrupted other scheduled missions.
The launch was delayed by Hurricane Helene, marking the first astronaut launch from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. SpaceX took over the pad nearly two decades ago for satellite and cargo launches, and the new launch site provides the company with greater flexibility.
The crew, who watched the launch from the ISS, cheered “Go Dragon!” as they saw the capsule rocketing into orbit. Williams, now the ISS commander, expressed gratitude for the rescue mission, which will return the station to its normal population of seven astronauts.
Hague, who has extensive experience in spaceflight, including surviving a rocket failure six years ago, took command of the rescue mission. He expressed his appreciation for his colleagues left behind and emphasized the importance of teamwork in the face of unforeseen challenges.
This mission highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Boeing’s Starliner program, which has been plagued by delays and technical issues. Meanwhile, SpaceX continues to be a leader in NASA’s commercial crew program, with a proven track record of successful missions to the ISS.
First Piper 