SpaceX set to launch Crew-12 mission to ISS today
13 Feb 2026

SpaceX is gearing up to launch its Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) at 3:45pm IST today.

The mission will see four astronauts, including ESA's Sophie Adenot, heading to the ISS. Their arrival will restore numbers after Crew-11 departed following a medical evacuation in January.

The Crew-12 team includes Commander Jessica Meir, Pilot Jack Hathaway, Mission Specialists Sophie Adenot and Andrey Fedyaev.

Research on blood clotting risks, astronaut vision health
Research focus

The Crew-12 astronauts will spend around eight months at the ISS, during which they will conduct more than 200 experiments.

These include research on blood clotting risks, astronaut vision health, and manual piloting tests for future Moon missions.

The Venous Flow study is particularly important as it seeks to understand circulation changes in microgravity and their implications for long-duration space missions.

Manual piloting tests for future Moon missions
Training exercises

As part of their training, the Crew-12 astronauts will also practice manual piloting techniques. These tests are crucial for preparations for future Moon landings.

Another key area of research during this mission is astronaut eye health, with teams studying Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS), a condition that affects vision during extended missions.

Data from these studies could help protect crews traveling farther into space.

How to watch Crew-12 launch live
Viewing options

The Crew-12 launch will be streamed live by both NASA and SpaceX, giving viewers in India a chance to witness the event.

The broadcast will start hours before liftoff, showing moments like suit-up and countdown.

SpaceX will provide multiple views of the Falcon 9 ascent as well as its first stage booster landing attempt.

NASA will also provide a separate webcast for docking at the ISS on Saturday.