Published: September 23, 2025, 14:00 EDT

NASA has announced its newest group of astronauts, selecting 10 scientists, engineers, and pilots from a pool of more than 8,000 applicants. This elite team, the 24th class since the original Mercury Seven in 1959, represents a historic milestone with more women than men for the first time. These astronauts will support upcoming missions to the Moon under the Artemis program and potentially to Mars in the future.

A Historic Astronaut Selection

The newly chosen class includes six women and four men, reflecting growing gender diversity in the U.S. astronaut corps. Among them are a geologist with experience on NASA’s Curiosity Mars rover and an engineer who previously flew aboard a SpaceX mission, which included the world’s first private spacewalk last year.

NASA Acting Administrator Sean Duffy highlighted the significance of this selection during a Monday ceremony at the Johnson Space Center in Houston. “You are America’s best and brightest, and we’re going to need America’s best and brightest because we have a bold exploration plan for the future,” Duffy said. He emphasized that the United States aims to lead the second lunar race and eventually land astronauts on Mars.

Training and Preparation

The new astronauts will undergo two years of rigorous training before becoming eligible for spaceflight. This preparation includes technical simulations, spacewalk practice, robotics operation, and survival training.

Norm Knight, NASA’s flight operations director, described the competition as “stiff” and praised the class for its outstanding qualifications. “These astronauts are distinguished and exceptional,” Knight said, noting the group’s diverse expertise, which includes military pilots, engineers, and a medical doctor.

Personal Stories of Selection

Several members of the class shared their reactions to the life-changing news. Air Force Maj. Adam Fuhrmann received his acceptance call during rush hour traffic and immediately pulled over to ensure he heard correctly. Another Air Force pilot, Maj. Cameron Jones, learned of his selection just after moving across the country.

Navy Lt. Cmdr. Erin Overcash was at home when she received her call. “No way. I mean, I mean, yes, of course. But like no way,” she said. She noted that her experience living on a ship with thousands of crew members will help her adapt to the challenges of spaceflight.

Experienced Astronauts Among the New Class

Anna Menon, who flew with billionaire Jared Isaacman on a SpaceX mission last September, becomes the first NASA astronaut candidate in history to have already reached orbit. Her husband, a former SpaceX flight surgeon, was also selected in NASA’s previous class.

Lauren Edgar, a geologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, contributed to the Curiosity rover mission on Mars and has joined the Artemis program’s lunar science team. “I am so excited to be officially part of the NASA family,” Edgar said, highlighting the team’s enthusiasm for future exploration.

NASA’s Ongoing Mission and Future Goals

NASA has selected only 370 individuals as astronauts over more than six decades, making the corps a highly exclusive group. The new additions will join 41 active U.S. astronauts currently serving.

The class comes at a pivotal moment for the U.S. space program, as NASA prepares for Artemis missions aimed at returning humans to the Moon by 2027 at the earliest. These astronauts will play key roles in testing new technologies, conducting scientific experiments, and preparing for eventual human missions to Mars.

Promoting Diversity and Expertise

The selection of more women than men for the first time underscores NASA’s efforts to foster diversity in its astronaut program. With backgrounds ranging from spaceflight engineering to geoscience and military aviation, the new class embodies a wide array of skills necessary for long-duration missions in deep space.

This historic astronaut class represents both the culmination of years of rigorous selection and the promise of America’s next generation of space explorers.

Source: AP News – NASA introduces its newest astronauts: 10 chosen from more than 8,000 applicants

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After spending more than nine months in space, NASA astronauts Barry “Butch” Wilmore and Suni Williams finally returned to Earth on Tuesday, marking the end of an unexpectedly prolonged mission. Their SpaceX Dragon capsule made a successful splashdown landing in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Tallahassee, Florida.

A Mission That Stretched Months Beyond Schedule

Wilmore, 62, and Williams, 59, initially embarked on a roughly week-long mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2024 aboard Boeing’s new Starliner crew capsule. However, multiple technical issues, including helium leaks and reaction control thruster malfunctions, prevented their planned return. As a result, NASA sent Starliner back to Earth without its crew and transferred Wilmore and Williams to SpaceX’s spacecraft, further extending their stay in orbit.

The Long-Awaited Homecoming

Their long-delayed return became possible after a new crew, Crew-10, reached the ISS over the weekend via a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. This relieved Wilmore and Williams, allowing them to finally make their journey home. SpaceX Mission Control in California radioed a warm welcome:

“On behalf of SpaceX, welcome home.”

NASA astronaut Nick Hague, the capsule’s commander, responded enthusiastically:

“What a ride!”

Delayed But Safe Return

NASA had initially planned for Crew-9—comprising Wilmore, Williams, Hague, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov—to return earlier, but technical complications with the SpaceX capsule led to further delays. The final leg of their journey took approximately 17 hours from the moment Dragon detached from the ISS until its splashdown.

Upon their return, Hague reported that the crew was “grinning ear to ear,” thrilled to be back on solid ground.

The Challenges of Starliner and the Role of SpaceX

Boeing’s Starliner was meant to be a key component of NASA’s commercial crew program, undergoing test flights for certification. However, due to its mechanical failures, NASA and Boeing opted for an unmanned return to Earth last September to gather additional testing data while avoiding unnecessary risks to astronauts.

Meanwhile, SpaceX, which has conducted 10 operational human spaceflight missions under the commercial crew program, played a crucial role in bringing Wilmore and Williams home. The successful Crew-10 launch ensured a smooth transition of ISS staffing, ultimately allowing for their long-overdue return.

Political Repercussions

The extended space stay of Wilmore and Williams has drawn political attention, with former President Donald Trump using their situation to criticize President Joe Biden’s administration. However, NASA remains focused on its mission objectives, ensuring astronaut safety and advancing space exploration technology.

As NASA continues to work through challenges with the Starliner program, the success of SpaceX’s Dragon capsule once again underscores the company’s reliability in human spaceflight missions.

Source: FOXBUSINESS – SpaceX Dragon capsule sticks splashdown landing as NASA astronauts return home after months stuck in space

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SpaceX’s Crew-10 mission has successfully arrived at the International Space Station (ISS), marking a significant milestone in space exploration and paving the way for the return of two long-stranded NASA astronauts.

Crew-10 Mission Details

On March 14, 2025, at 7:03 p.m. EDT, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying the Crew-10 mission aboard the Dragon capsule, named Endurance. The crew consists of NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, Japanese astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Russian cosmonaut Kirill Peskov. After a 28-hour journey, the capsule successfully docked with the ISS on March 15, 2025, at approximately 12:04 a.m. EDT. citeturn0search1turn0search4

Stranded Astronauts’ Imminent Return

NASA astronauts Sunita “Suni” Williams and Barry “Butch” Wilmore have been aboard the ISS since June 2024. Their initial mission, intended to last only about a week, was extended indefinitely due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner capsule, rendering it unsafe for their return. citeturn0search14

With the arrival of Crew-10, Williams and Wilmore are scheduled to return to Earth no earlier than March 19, 2025, aboard a SpaceX capsule already docked at the station. citeturn0search14

Crew-10’s Mission Objectives

The newly arrived Crew-10 members are set to undertake a six-month mission aboard the ISS. Their objectives include conducting scientific research to prepare for human exploration beyond low Earth orbit and benefiting humanity on Earth. citeturn0search6

International Collaboration

The Crew-10 mission exemplifies international cooperation in space exploration, with crew members from NASA, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and the Russian space agency Roscosmos. This collaboration underscores the collective efforts to advance scientific research and maintain the ISS as a hub for global scientific endeavors.

The successful docking of Crew-10 not only ensures the continuation of vital research aboard the ISS but also facilitates the long-awaited return of astronauts Williams and Wilmore, highlighting the resilience and dedication of those involved in human spaceflight.

Source: SpaceX’s Crew-10 arrives at the ISS, paving the way for NASA’s Wilmore and Williams to return home

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SpaceX was forced to delay its mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday after a launch pad issue arose just hours before liftoff. The mission was set to replace two NASA astronauts who have been stranded in orbit for months.

The setback occurred less than four hours before the scheduled evening launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Engineers identified a critical hydraulic issue with the system responsible for releasing one of the two arms that secure the Falcon rocket to its support structure. This structure must tilt back before liftoff.

As the countdown continued, the four astronauts assigned to the mission were already strapped into their SpaceX capsule, awaiting final approval. However, with less than an hour remaining, SpaceX made the decision to cancel the launch. Officials later announced that the next attempt would be postponed until at least Friday.

The mission is crucial because the new crew needs to arrive at the ISS before NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams can return home. Wilmore and Williams, who have been in orbit for nine months, were originally scheduled for a much shorter stay.

Their extended mission resulted from significant failures in Boeing’s new Starliner capsule, which was supposed to carry them back after a brief test flight. However, due to major breakdowns in transit, NASA opted to return the capsule empty and assigned the astronauts to a SpaceX mission for their return journey.

Once launched, the incoming crew—comprising U.S., Japanese, and Russian astronauts—will replace Wilmore and Williams aboard the ISS. NASA and SpaceX are now working to resolve the technical issue to ensure a safe and successful mission by the end of the week.

Source

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Launch Details

• Launch Time: 7:48 p.m. EDT, Wednesday, March 12, 2025
• Location: NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Florida (Launch Pad 39A)
• Mission: SpaceX Crew-10 will travel aboard a Dragon capsule to the International Space Station (ISS). This mission will pave the way for the return of Crew-9, including Boeing Starliner astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams.

What to Expect

• The Falcon 9 rocket will follow a northeasterly trajectory after liftoff.
• Sonic booms will be heard across Florida’s Space Coast when the first-stage booster returns to Cape Canaveral Space Force Station approximately 7 minutes, 39 seconds after launch.
• Depending on cloud cover and weather, viewers from Orlando, Daytona Beach, Cocoa Beach, and Vero Beach may witness the rocket’s ascent streak across the sky.

Where to Watch Online

Can’t be near Kennedy Space Center? Here’s how you can still watch the launch:

• Live Coverage Start Time: 3:30 p.m. EDT
• NASA+ Livestream: Begins at 3:45 p.m. EDT
• FLORIDA TODAY Space Team: Continuous updates and expert commentary at floridatoday.com/space
• USA TODAY Network Coverage: Available across multiple platforms

Watching from Florida’s Space Coast

The best viewing locations include:

• Brevard County: Melbourne, Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island, Titusville
• First Coast/Fun Coast: Volusia County
• Treasure Coast: Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin counties
  Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and expect heavy traffic post-launch.

How to Watch on Your Phone, Tablet, or TV

• Visit floridatoday.com/space for a live webcast with real-time updates and Q&A with space reporters.
• Download the FLORIDA TODAY app on iOS or Android for on-the-go access.
• YouTube Streaming: Open the NASA YouTube channel on your TV or device to watch the Crew-10 mission unfold.
• Screen Mirroring: Cast from your phone to a smart TV for a big-screen experience.

Follow Live Updates on Social Media

Stay connected with real-time updates and expert insights:

• X (formerly Twitter): @SpaceTeam, @rickneale1, @brookeofstars, @cbphoto1, @Florida_Today, @nasa, @spacex
• Instagram: @nasa, @nasakennedy, @Florida_Today, @crbphoto1

While NASA has official accounts on Instagram, live streaming plans remain unconfirmed. However, expect updates and posts about the Crew-10 mission across their platforms.

Can the Rocket Be Seen Outside of Florida?

Yes! If weather permits, the launch may be visible beyond Florida. In previous launches, Falcon Heavy was seen as far as Myrtle Beach and beyond.

For the latest space news and mission updates, keep checking floridatoday.com/space and tune in live for this historic moment!

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Layoffs Announced by CEO Dave Limp

CEO Dave Limp broke the news to employees on Thursday, with official layoff notifications sent out on Friday. In an email obtained by the Associated Press, Limp acknowledged that the decision was difficult but necessary.

“With our rapid growth over the past few years, bureaucracy increased, and focus decreased,” he wrote.

Why Blue Origin Is Cutting Jobs

According to Limp, the job cuts are aimed at streamlining operations and accelerating manufacturing and launch schedules. Despite recent milestones, the company is adjusting its workforce to remain efficient and competitive.

Blue Origin’s Operations:

• Headquarters: Kent, Washington
• Launch Sites: Florida (New Glenn) & Texas (New Shepard)

Competing with SpaceX & NASA Contracts

Blue Origin is in a high-stakes race with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, both competing for NASA contracts to land astronauts on the Moon in the coming years.

The layoffs come at a crucial time, as Blue Origin focuses on increasing its launch frequency and refining its space technology.

How Many Employees Are Affected?

The exact number of employees impacted by the layoffs remains unclear, as Blue Origin, a privately held company, does not disclose employment figures.

Final Thoughts

While Blue Origin celebrated a major success with New Glenn’s first orbital flight, the company is now making strategic adjustments to stay competitive in the evolving space industry. With its NASA contracts and future Moon missions, the focus is now on efficiency, innovation, and long-term growth.

Source

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Blue Origin’s highly anticipated New Glenn rocket made a successful debut Thursday, reaching orbit during its first test flight. The massive 320-foot (98-meter) rocket, named after the first American to orbit Earth, John Glenn, launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The rocket sent a prototype satellite into orbit thousands of miles above Earth, marking a significant achievement for the company founded by Amazon’s Jeff Bezos.

A Historic Launch

The New Glenn rocket lifted off from the same launch pad that was used for NASA’s Mariner and Pioneer missions more than 50 years ago, showcasing Blue Origin’s commitment to space exploration. The launch was the culmination of years of development and substantial investment from Bezos, with Blue Origin pouring over $1 billion into rebuilding the historic Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

All seven engines of the New Glenn rocket ignited as it soared into the predawn sky, thrilling spectators along Florida’s beaches. The mission was a success, as the rocket reached orbit just 13 minutes after launch, earning praise even from SpaceX founder Elon Musk.

A Partial Success: Landing Failure

While the mission was a major milestone, the first-stage booster missed its landing on a barge in the Atlantic Ocean. However, Blue Origin emphasized that the primary goal—reaching orbit—was achieved. Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp expressed his excitement on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “We did it! On to spring and trying again on the landing.”

The satellite on board remained inside the rocket’s second stage while it orbited Earth. In line with NASA’s practices to minimize space debris, the second stage was placed into a high orbit, where it will remain safely out of the way.

A Delayed Start and Big Plans Ahead

Originally scheduled for Monday, the test flight was delayed due to ice buildup in critical plumbing, which caused a brief setback. Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket is designed to carry not only satellites but also spacecraft and eventually astronauts to orbit and the moon.

This test flight represents a significant leap forward for Blue Origin, which has been launching paying passengers to the edge of space since 2021 using smaller rockets named after Alan Shepard, the first American in space. In contrast, the New Glenn rocket—named after John Glenn—is five times taller.

Bezos and Blue Origin’s Vision

Bezos, who founded Blue Origin 25 years ago, has long advocated for the expansion of space exploration. Despite the high cost and competition from other private companies like SpaceX, Bezos remains optimistic about the future of the space industry. He emphasized that there is “room for lots of winners” in the space race, stressing the importance of collaboration to reduce the cost of access to space.

Looking ahead, Blue Origin plans to conduct six to eight New Glenn flights this year, with the next launch expected in the spring.

Competing with SpaceX and Other Major Rockets

New Glenn’s successful flight comes amid the rise of other big rockets in recent years. SpaceX’s Starship, the largest rocket at approximately 400 feet (123 meters), is also poised to make waves in the space industry. Starship is slated to be used by NASA for the Artemis program, which aims to land astronauts on the Moon. Elon Musk’s company also recently demonstrated catching the returning booster with giant mechanical arms, an innovative approach to rocket reusability.

Additionally, United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket and Europe’s Ariane 6 are expected to make their mark in upcoming space missions. Blue Origin, meanwhile, is focused on further development of New Glenn, which was initially slated to send twin spacecraft to Mars for NASA. However, NASA delayed the mission and pulled the spacecraft, Escapade, from last October’s flight. The spacecraft, which will study Mars’ atmosphere and magnetic environment, will now launch no earlier than spring 2025.

Looking to the Moon and Beyond

Blue Origin’s ambitions extend beyond Earth orbit. The company’s Blue Moon lander is expected to play a significant role in NASA’s lunar missions, helping astronauts land on the Moon as part of the Artemis program. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson has been a vocal advocate for competition in the space industry, promoting the idea of multiple companies developing lunar landers for the agency’s missions.

As the space race intensifies, Bezos and Blue Origin are making significant strides toward realizing their vision for space exploration. New Glenn’s successful launch is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new chapter in the history of space travel.

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