SpaceX has delayed its planned May 12 cargo launch to the International Space Station until May 13, citing weather conditions at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The Falcon 9 rocket will now attempt liftoff at 6:50 p.m. EDT from the Florida launch site, carrying 6,500 pounds of supplies and scientific equipment. NASA and SpaceX called off Tuesday's attempt due to unfavorable weather, though no specific conditions were disclosed. Live coverage will begin at 6:30 p.m. EDT, with the Dragon spacecraft expected to reach the ISS by May 14.
This mission, designated CRS-34, marks SpaceX's 34th flight under NASA's Commercial Resupply Services program. The cargo includes experiments on microgravity simulation, a wood-based bone scaffold for osteoporosis research, and equipment to study red blood cell changes in space. NASA officials highlighted these payloads in a media advisory, noting their potential to advance medical treatments and astronaut health protocols.
The Dragon capsule will autonomously dock to the Harmony module's forward port around 7:35 a.m. EDT on May 14. Scientists will use the mission to test Earth-based simulators' accuracy in replicating microgravity, which could improve experiments conducted on the ground. The wood-derived bone scaffold, developed by researchers, aims to create new therapies for brittle bone conditions by mimicking natural bone structures.
Residents and space enthusiasts can watch the launch and docking events via NASA's live stream. The mission follows SpaceX's recent CRS-33 flight in August 2025, which delivered similar scientific payloads. No further delays are expected, with the Falcon 9's first stage planned to land at Cape Canaveral's Landing Zone 1 after liftoff.