Joshua Kutryk, a 44-year-old Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut, is gearing up for his journey to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of NASA’s Crew-13 mission. Kutryk will serve as a mission specialist alongside Russian cosmonaut Sergey Teteryatnikov from Roscosmos, with NASA astronauts Jessica Watkins as commander and Luke Delaney as the pilot. The team will be launched to the ISS aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, with the weather outlook at Cape Canaveral, Fla., showing some variability with possible showers and thunderstorms.
Originally slated to fly on Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner, Kutryk was reassigned to SpaceX following significant setbacks experienced by Boeing. Meanwhile, NASA is addressing a potential issue on the ISS related to the Canadarm2 robotic arm’s temporarily halted movement due to communication errors post a recent manoeuvre. NASA and SpaceX are collaborating to ensure smooth docking procedures between Crew Dragon and the station.
During a recent press conference, NASA’s Lorie Glaze expressed confidence in the crew’s readiness for the mission, highlighting their enthusiasm. Dana Weigel, the manager of the Low Earth Orbit Program, reiterated the crew’s preparedness and positive spirits as they prepare for the upcoming launch.
The mission follows CSA astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s recent circumlunar trip as part of the Artemis II mission. CSA’s Mathieu Caron emphasized Canada’s pride in contributing to the ISS’s development through the mobile servicing system, enabling the station’s construction.
The crew is scheduled for a traditional walk-out from their quarantine facility before proceeding to the launch pad for capsule preparations. Notably, Kutryk’s wife Heather is expected to give birth to their third child while he is in orbit.
The crew is set to rendezvous with the ISS shortly after launch, with plans for an expedited mission of approximately eight hours. In the event of adverse weather conditions on Thursday, the next launch opportunity is scheduled for Friday. Emphasizing readiness and preparation, NASA assures that launches only proceed when conditions are optimal. Kutryk’s high spirits and readiness for the mission reflect the team’s overall enthusiasm and determination.