A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch for NASA's CRS-34 mission was scrubbed on May 13, 2026, after anvil clouds violated launch conditions at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The attempt was called off just hours after a previous scrub on May 12 due to heavy rain, leaving the team with another delay. The rocket was set to lift off from Launch Complex 40 at 6:50 p.m. ET, carrying 6,500 pounds of supplies to the International Space Station in a Dragon spacecraft. Weather forecasts initially gave a 60% chance of clear conditions, but SpaceX later reduced that to 10% as anvil clouds and surface electric fields posed risks.
NASA confirmed the scrub was due to anvil cloud violations near Space Launch Complex 40. The 45th Weather Squadron had warned of cumulus clouds and electrical activity in the area, factors that can disrupt radio communications and pose safety risks. SpaceX teams stood down from the launch opportunity, marking the second delay for the mission. The next available window for a launch has not been announced yet, but NASA said the Dragon spacecraft will be refreshed for the next attempt.
The Falcon 9's first-stage booster was expected to return to Landing Zone 40 near the launch pad after its sixth flight. Residents of Central Florida were warned to expect sonic booms from the booster's descent, a common occurrence during landings. The mission is part of SpaceX's ongoing contract with NASA to resupply the ISS, with previous flights successfully delivering scientific equipment, food, and other critical materials.
The scrubbed launch highlights the challenges of weather on the Space Coast, where thunderstorms and high humidity frequently impact space operations. SpaceX and NASA teams will review data from the failed attempt to determine the next steps. No timeline was given for the next launch window, but the mission remains a priority for both agencies.
Local officials and residents have grown accustomed to delays, but the repeated setbacks underscore the unpredictability of launching from Florida. The CRS-34 mission is expected to be attempted again in the coming weeks, pending weather and technical evaluations.