What safety checks happen before a crewed launch?

Safety processes for human launches

Crewed launches follow stringent safety procedures that span vehicle qualification, crew health, mission rehearsals, and countdown protocols. Multiple independent reviews verify readiness.

Common safety elements:

  • System-level qualification testing and flight certification.
  • Redundant life support and abort systems.
  • Comprehensive preflight medical exams and quarantine when needed.
  • Full mission simulations and emergency response training.

Real-time safeguards

  • Launch commit criteria include weather, vehicle health, and ground system readiness.
  • Abort options and contingency plans are predefined.
  • Continuous monitoring by flight control teams until the crew reaches a safe trajectory.

These measures minimize risk and prepare crews and ground teams for both nominal operation and emergency response.