SpaceX successfully conducted a static fire test of its Falcon 9 rocket on February 8, 2026, marking a significant step toward the launch of the Crew-12 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The test, which took place at 3:16 a.m. EST (0816 UTC) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, involved the ignition of the nine Merlin 1D engines at the rocket’s base for approximately ten seconds.
Preparing for Launch Day
This engine test was designed to validate the Falcon 9’s systems prior to flight. Following the test, SpaceX engineers will analyze the data to confirm that all systems are ready for the upcoming launch. A dry dress rehearsal is also planned, where the crew will practice all launch day operations ahead of their mission.
The Crew-12 mission will feature NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway, European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev. The astronauts will don upgraded flight suits, similar to those used by Crew-11 Pilot Mike Fincke during his mission that concluded in January.
Mission Details and Milestones
On launch day, the crew will practice boarding the Crew Dragon Freedom spacecraft at the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkouts building before making their way to the launch pad. Once in orbit, the Crew-12 team is scheduled to spend approximately eight months aboard the ISS, contributing to various scientific research and technology demonstrations.
Notably, this will be the second human spaceflight mission to launch from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40). SpaceX plans to utilize its new landing pad, designated Landing Zone 40, which will facilitate the recovery of booster tail number 1101 less than eight minutes after liftoff.
As preparations continue, both NASA and SpaceX remain focused on ensuring a successful mission that not only advances human spaceflight but also enhances international cooperation in space exploration.
