The hatches between the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and the International Space Station (ISS) opened on February 14, 2026, at 17:14 EST, marking the official arrival of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 astronauts. This moment inaugurated their mission aboard the ISS as part of Expedition 74, which will involve a variety of scientific research and technology demonstrations.
Upon entering the station, Crew-12 members, including NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev, were welcomed by their fellow crew members. The existing Expedition 74 team comprises NASA astronaut Chris Williams and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev.
Collaboration in Space Research
The Crew-12 mission exemplifies ongoing collaboration among the European Space Agency, Roscosmos, and NASA. These agencies continue to work together to advance scientific discovery in microgravity. Over the coming months, the seven-person international crew will carry out a range of experiments and demonstrations that aim to enhance life both on Earth and in space.
Following their launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on February 13 at 05:15 EST (10:15 UTC), the Crew-12 spacecraft successfully docked at the orbiting laboratory the next day at 15:15 EST (20:15 UTC). The astronauts are set to spend several months in low Earth orbit, conducting important scientific work that supports future exploration missions to the Moon and Mars.
Scientific Endeavors Ahead
During their time aboard the ISS, the Crew-12 astronauts will engage in critical research and technology advancements that have the potential to benefit humanity. Their work will contribute to the essential knowledge needed for long-duration space travel, which is vital for future missions beyond Earth.
As the Crew-12 team integrates into the ISS, updates on their ongoing research and activities will be closely monitored by space enthusiasts and scientific communities worldwide. This mission not only signifies a significant step in international cooperation but also underscores the continuous human effort to explore and understand the universe.
Stay informed for upcoming updates on their mission and the scientific discoveries that will emerge from Expedition 74.
