European Space Agency News

Launch of Crew-12 with Sophie Adenot | Εpsilon Mission

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launched the Crew‑12 mission, carrying astronaut Sophie Adenot, from Launch Complex 40 at 7 million newtons of thrust, marking another milestone for the commercial crew program. The vehicle performed a controlled pitch‑over maneuver before reaching Max Q, the point of peak aerodynamic pressure, where it throttled down to protect the structure before ramping thrust back up for ascent. During the ascent, the crew experienced just over 2 g of acceleration, a level comparable to a high‑speed roller coaster and short‑duration fighter‑jet maneuvers. The spacecraft’s horizontal seating orientation helps distribute these forces, keeping astronauts comfortable despite the increased weight they feel. Mission engineers explained Max Q as the moment of greatest atmospheric stress, noting the rocket’s slight bend but structural integrity. They also highlighted the seamless transition from first‑stage engine cutoff to second‑stage MVAC ignition, underscoring the reliability of the launch sequence. The successful launch reinforces confidence in SpaceX’s reusable launch system and the U.S. crew‑transport capability, paving the way for future ISS rotations and deep‑space missions while demonstrating that high‑g environments can be managed safely for crew members.