NASA Announces SpaceX Crew-10 Team for International Space Station Mission

NASA's announcement of the SpaceX Crew-10 assignments marks another significant stride in human space exploration. Slated to launch no earlier than February 2025, four astronauts from across the globe are poised to embark on a mission critical for both scientific advancement and preparatory research for future spaceflights to the Moon and Mars.

The crew will take part in the 10th rotational mission as a segment of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, a testament to international cooperation and technological progress. NASA astronauts Commander Anne McClain and Pilot Nichole Ayers will lead the mission, joined by JAXA astronaut Mission Specialist Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Mission Specialist Kirill Peskov. Together, they will reside for an extended period on the International Space Station (ISS), engaging in various research projects and technological demonstrations.

Bringing a rich history of flight experience and previous space exploration achievements, each crew member is distinguished in their achievements and backgrounds:

Commander Anne McClain, a veteran astronaut and U.S. Army colonel, will undertake her second spaceflight, bringing her expertise and leadership to the forefront of the mission. Recognized for her versatility, McClain has accumulated a substantial number of flight hours and spacewalk experience. Her engineering and military background will be pivotal in guiding the crew aboard the ISS.

For Pilot Nichole Ayers, the mission marks a debut spaceflight, an exceptional milestone for a member of NASA's 2021 astronaut class. Her mathematical and flight instruction skills, coupled with her combat experience, stand as significant assets to the team. Major Ayers represents a new generation of astronauts, injecting vigor and insight into NASA’s endeavors.

JAXA astronaut Takuya Onishi offers an invaluable perspective, building on his previous experience aboard the ISS. His input will be particularly beneficial for robotics and experimental tasks, drawing from his expertise as a flight engineer and pilot.

Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov joins the team for what will be his very first journey to space—a step that not only propels his career forward but also symbolizes the ongoing collaboration between international space agencies.

Through their expeditions, the Crew-10 astronauts will continue to build upon the two decades of scientific research carried out on the ISS. They will help NASA tackle the challenges of long-duration spaceflight, thus laying the groundwork for the Artemis missions to the Moon and beyond.

NASA's steadfast commitment to the Commercial Crew Program, in partnership with SpaceX, underscores the agency’s resolve to ensure a continuous human presence in space. This mission exemplifies the power of international partnership and shared knowledge in humanity's quest to understand our universe and, eventually, extend our presence to other celestial bodies.