NASA astronaut Anil Menon launches to International Space Station on Soyuz MS-29 mission
Anil Menon joins Roscosmos cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina aboard Soyuz MS-29 for scientific research and technology demonstrations.
NASA astronaut Anil Menon launched to the International Space Station on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, aboard a Soyuz rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. He is joined by Roscosmos cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina for the Soyuz MS-29 mission.
The crew lifted off at 7:47 p.m. local time to begin their long-duration stay aboard the orbital outpost. The launch was observed by NASA astronaut candidate Anna Menon and her children at the launch site.
During his mission, Menon will conduct scientific research and technology demonstrations aimed at advancing human space exploration and benefiting life on Earth. The Soyuz MS-29 mission represents a collaborative effort between NASA and Roscosmos, continuing the tradition of international cooperation in low Earth orbit.
The Baikonur Cosmodrome, located in Kazakhstan, serves as a primary launch site for Soyuz missions. The successful launch ensures the crew's safe transit to the International Space Station, where they will undertake a series of experiments and operational tasks.
Image credit for the launch event is attributed to NASA/John Kraus. The mission marks the latest in a series of crewed expeditions to the space station, highlighting ongoing efforts to maintain a continuous human presence in space.
