SpaceX is still troubleshooting, and as of now, launch is still on for 2:31 a.m. The Falcon 9 team is not working any issues with the rocket. Axiom Space launch in Florida to see life sciences Update 1:35 a.m.: The ISS National Lab is overseeing science experiments which will be flown on the mission. In total, the mission is carrying 60 experiments. These include a project which will investigate glucose monitoring and insulin onboard the ISS. Depending on results, findings could lead to individuals with diabetes qualifying to fly in space. Currently, those with diabetes are disqualified due to the medical unknowns. Another test by Booz Allen Hamilton will oversee biometric readings on a crew member using the Oura Ring. This project looks at analyzing and storing readings such as sleep quality and heart rate. Other experiments will look at cancer growth, how the space environment impacts human perception, as well as plant nutrition and growth in space. What will the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft be named? Update 1:20 a.m.: A brand new SpaceX Dragon spacecraft – which is also set to be the final one in production – is carrying this crew to the ISS. While the name will be revealed in orbit, Commander Peggy Whitson previously told media the name will be related to zero-g indicator, Joy. Axiom Space Mission 4: SpaceX launch in Florida Update 1:10 a.m.: Commander Peggy Whitson carries much experience heading into the mission. The former NASA astronaut holds the record for most time spent in space by an American. Her space journey started 23 years ago when she launched to the ISS onboard Space Shuttle Endeavor on the STS-111 mission. Whitson stayed on the ISS as part of Expedition 5. This mission is also her second with Axiom Space, as she flew on the Ax-2 mission in 2023 to the ISS. Axiom Ax-4 crew settle into SpaceX Dragon before launch from Florida Update 12:55 a.m.: The crew is settled into their brand-new SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, and awaiting the liftoff at 2:31 a.m. It will be the first launch for three of the astronauts, with Whitson being a repeat flier on SpaceX. SpaceX launch coverage begins Update 12:39 a.m.: Axiom Space and SpaceX are currently live ahead of launch. The video is posted above, below the countdown clock. Ax-4 launch tonight: SpaceX launch in Florida weather outlook Update 12:30 a.m.: The 45th Weather Squadron has predicted a 90% chance of favorable conditions for this launch. Should the mission not launch tonight, the weather decreases greatly for tomorrow’s opportunity. Not only are liftoff conditions expected to deteriorate, but ascent corridor conditions become moderate as well. Ascent corridor, or the path the rocket travels, must be clear of poor weather in case of an abort situation. The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is heading northeast upon liftoff, providing those north of the Space Coast with a great view. Axiom launch in Florida: Crew heads to launch pad Update 12:15 a.m.: The four astronauts of the Ax-4 mission stopped by the NASA VAB to wave goodbye to family and friends before heading off to prepare for launch. FLORIDA TODAY photographer, Craig Bailey, captured the moment Tuesday night. At 2:31 a.m. the four will lift off in a brand new SpaceX Dragon atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center Pad 39A. Brooke Edwards is a Space Reporter for Florida Today. Contact her at bedwards@floridatoday.com or on X: @brookeofstars. Featured Weekly Ad