First U.S. Space Force Guardian launches into space

CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION, Fla. - A U.S. Space Force Guardian launched into space from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, Sept. 28, 2024. This was the first time that a Guardian was launched into space since the inception of the USSF.

U.S. Space Force Col. Nick Hague commanded the NASA SpaceX Crew-9 mission aboard the Dragon spacecraft en route to the International Space Station. His crewmate, Roscosmos cosmonaut Mission Specialist Aleksandr Gorbunov, was also on board.

The Crew-9 mission marked the first crewed launch from Space Launch Complex 40.

“Col. Hague represents NASA, but, beneath the spacesuit, he remains a Guardian—embodying the character, commitment, connection, and courage inherent to the Guardian Spirit,” said U.S. Space Force Gen. Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations. ”I wish Nick the best of luck on his journey, and I know he will make us proud.”

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