The launch is scheduled for 2:22 p.m. CT.
The mission
A new era of human spaceflight is set to begin as American astronauts once again launch on an American rocket from American soil to the International Space Station as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.
NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley will fly on SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, lifting off on a Falcon 9 rocket May 30, from Launch Complex 39A in Florida, for an extended stay at the space station for the Demo-2 mission. The specific duration of the mission is to be determined.
As the final flight test for SpaceX, this mission will validate the company’s crew transportation system, including the launch pad, rocket, spacecraft, and operational capabilities. This also will be the first time NASA astronauts will test the spacecraft systems in orbit.
The playlist
Every party needs a good playlist. Our spacey Spotify song selections have all of the cosmic classics you’re looking for in a rocket launch watch party.
The outfit
That iconic retro NASA look is simple to recreate. You just need a white button up shirt, a slim tie, and usually dark slacks. Don’t forget your pocket protector and black-frame glasses.
If you’re looking for a costume for the kiddos, check out this simple DIY astronaut costume you can make with house-hold items:
The food & drinks
What better way to celebrate this return to space than with a party menu themed around each era of NASA spaceflight.
Mercury
Start your party off right with these quick finger foods that celebrate the first NASA crewed missions. The Mercury program launched Alan Shepard into space and John Glenn into orbit. This Galaxy Party Popcorn will launch your taste buds into orbit, too.
Gemini
It takes two to make a dream come true. Or to operate the Gemini spacecraft. NASA’s second crewed space program sent two people into orbit. So why not make twice-baked potato skins to give your party a savory appetizer?
Apollo
The first missions to land on the Moon should be commemorated with some edible Moon rocks. Here’s a fun snack to make the whole family will enjoy.
Space Shuttle
Thanks to the shuttle, we were able to launch and repair orbital telescopes that let us gaze into the vastness of space. Make these galaxy brownies for a sweet treat to end your watch party!
ISS
Need a main course to round out your menu? Do what the astronauts aboard the International Space Station do and enjoy a tortilla! Make your own flour tortillas with this recipe and create a fun wrap to end your watch party in style.
Galaxy Lemonade & Cosmic cocktails
Refuel on your space adventure with this delightful color-changing Galaxy Lemonade or cool off with a frozen Galaxy Mocktail. For the grown up space explorers, celebrate history with an out-of-this-world cocktail. Enjoy a classic Cosmo or an Aviation and cheers to ring in the new era in spaceflight.
Set the scene
DIY space decorations – anything from rocket garlands to starry balloons to intergalactic lighting will create the perfect photo backdrop.
This is a perfect time to drag those holiday lights out of storage and create your own starry sky. Print and color a few NASA coloring pages and decorate the room with your own solar system.
Plan a fun activity
Space fans can test their space knowledge with space trivia or a Try this at Home activity. We have a selection to choose from on our resources page.
Your future explorers can also build a DEMO-2 straw rocket using the NASA demonstration below.
Connect with friends
Countdown to the launch. Set up a video call with friends, share your watch party photos on social media and use the hashtags #launchamerica and #spacecenterhou. We may reshare your party pics.
