Spectators already camping out for SpaceX Crew-9 launch Saturday

Launch expected at 1:17 p.m. from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

TITUSVILLE, Fla. – With NASA’s CREW-9 mission set for Saturday, Space View Park is expected to fill up with excited spectators eager to witness the historic launch. NASA reports that despite recent storms, preparations remain on schedule for the 1:17 p.m. launch on Saturday.

“I’m so excited. I’ve lived here for only a couple months and seeing the rocket launch from my house and coming down here, I’m so excited to see it,” said a resident.

“I’ve lived here all my life, she’s my friend so I’m bringing her here to watch the launch tomorrow,” said another resident.

CREW-9 marks the ninth SpaceX mission for NASA’s Commercial Flight Program and the first crewed liftoff from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral. Until now, human spaceflights have only launched from Kennedy Space Center, a tradition dating back to the Apollo 8 mission in 1968.

The mission will not only continue the commercial partnership between NASA and SpaceX but also pave the way for further space exploration and experiments onboard the ISS.

In February, the CREW-9 capsule will return with two astronauts currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), left on the station following issues with Boeing’s Starliner.

“Honestly, just watching it happen,” said a resident. “Just the experience of watching it. It’s usually historic and is going to connect us further, so it’s a pretty awesome experience.”

Stay tuned for complete coverage of the CREW-9 launch, on-air and online at ClickOrlando.com.

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