SpaceX Crew-5 begin their journey to the International Space Station, scientific discovery.

The SpaceX Crew-5 astronauts, Nicole Mann, Josh Cassada, Koichi Wakata, and Anna Kikina, wave goodbye to Earth as they launch into space on a Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The astronauts are embarking on a six-month mission to the International Space Station, where they will conduct groundbreaking research and experiments.

The Crew-5 mission is the fifth operational flight of SpaceX's Crew Dragon spacecraft under NASA's Commercial Crew Program. It is also the first spaceflight for Mann, Cassada, and Kikina. Wakata is a veteran of four space shuttle missions and one long-duration stay on the ISS.

The astronauts will conduct a variety of research on the ISS, including studies of human health, aging, and plant growth. They will also help to maintain the station and conduct spacewalks.

The Crew-5 mission is a symbol of international cooperation and collaboration. The astronauts represent the United States, Japan, and Russia, and they will work together to advance knowledge and understanding of space.

The launch of the Crew-5 mission is a major milestone in the development of human spaceflight. It demonstrates the continued success of the Commercial Crew Program and the growing importance of international cooperation in space exploration.