Sophie Adenot Launches on Historic 2026 Mission to the ISS

French astronaut Sophie Adenot embarked on a landmark space mission on February 13, 2026, launching aboard the Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, towards the International Space Station (ISS). This event marks the first time in 25 years that a French woman has traveled to space, following Claudie Haigneré’s missions in 1996 and 2001.

The Crew-12 mission lifted off at 11:15 AM Paris time (5:15 AM Florida time), reaching speeds of approximately 1100 km/h shortly after takeoff. Adenot was accompanied by a crew of four astronauts, including two Americans and one Russian astronaut, aboard the Crew Dragon capsule. The spacecraft is expected to dock with the ISS about 34 hours later, around 9:15 PM on February 14.

At 43 years old, Sophie Adenot is notable as the second French woman and one of the few French astronauts to venture into space. The mission is planned to last between eight and nine months, with Adenot slated to return to Earth in October 2026. During her time on the ISS, she will conduct scientific experiments and contribute to ongoing international research.

The launch was a spectacle of sound and light, with spectacular images capturing the Falcon 9’s ascent amid clouds of fire and dust. Viewers in France and around the world followed the live event closely, with media outlets encouraging public engagement by inviting questions and reflections about space travel and Adenot’s historic journey.

Sophie Adenot’s mission continues the tradition of French participation in space exploration, reinforcing France's role in international space efforts and inspiring a new generation with her pioneering voyage.