NASA delays Crew-13 launch after leak found on SpaceX Dragon

NASA and SpaceX have delayed Crew-13 after finding an oxidizer leak in the Dragon spacecraft’s propulsion system during prelaunch preparations. Engineers are investigating the problem before the four-person crew can begin its journey to the International Space Station. NASA delays Crew-13 launch after leak found on SpaceX Dragon.

From left are Roscosmos Sergey Teteryatnikov, NASA astronauts Luke Delaney and Jessica Watkins, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Joshua Kutryk. The issue was found during routine spacecraft processing ahead of launch. An oxidizer is a chemical that helps fuel burn inside a rocket or spacecraft propulsion system, making it an essential part of the vehicle’s ability to maneuver.

NASA and SpaceX teams are now carrying out additional testing and reviewing data from the spacecraft. Any repairs or other required work will be completed before Dragon is cleared to fly. NASA has not yet announced a new target launch date.