Crew-13 Launch Set for Thursday: How to Watch the NASA Mission Live

NASA plans to send the Crew‑13 expedition to the International Space Station on Thursday, representing the thirteenth crew swap under its Commercial Crew Program. The mission will ride SpaceX’s Falcon 9 from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center, carrying four astronauts – two Americans, one Japanese and one Emirati – to the orbiting laboratory.

Viewers and space fans can track the lift‑off in real time via a number of official sources. NASA’s website will feature a live video stream with commentary from mission control, while the agency’s YouTube channel will broadcast the same feed augmented with extra graphics. SpaceX will also host its own livestream on its website and on its official Twitter and Twitch pages, providing a behind‑the‑scenes perspective of the launch.

Those who favor conventional broadcasting can watch the launch on the major TV networks that have partnered with NASA for earlier crewed flights. In the U.S., NBC – which has previously aired Crew missions – is expected to carry the event, alongside NASA TV, which is available on most satellite and cable services. International audiences can find the feed on local broadcasters listed on NASA’s launch page.

To help ensure a trouble‑free viewing experience, NASA advises checking local listings for any schedule adjustments, as Cape weather can trigger short delays. The launch window opens at 3:38 a.m. Eastern Time (7:38 a.m. GMT), and the countdown will be reflected live on the streams. Viewers should note that the webcast will likely show a brief pre‑launch countdown, a safety countdown, and then the rocket’s ignition and liftoff.

After the live coverage, NASA will release post‑launch analysis, including a replay of the ascent and astronaut interviews once the crew has safely berthed with the ISS. The flight supports the broader goal of maintaining an uninterrupted U.S. presence in low‑Earth orbit, advancing scientific research and international collaboration. As the next crewed launch in the Commercial Crew Program, Crew‑13 highlights the expanding role of private partners in U.S. human spaceflight and gives the public a front‑row view of a historic moment in space exploration.