The Soyuz-2.1a launch vehicle successfully launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, carrying the crewed spacecraft Soyuz MS-29 into orbit. The launch was confirmed by Roscosmos and NASA. On board the spacecraft are Russian cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina, as well as NASA astronaut Anil Menon. This flight is Menon's first in his career. After launch, the spacecraft reached its designated orbit, separated from the rocket's third stage, and deployed its solar panels and antennas. Then, Soyuz MS-29 performed a rendezvous with the International Space Station and successfully docked with it. After the hatches were opened, the crew transferred to the ISS and joined the astronauts and cosmonauts already working there. The expedition is scheduled for 261 days. During this time, the crew is set to conduct 38 scientific experiments. The Russian segment of the program includes studies of solar activity to improve forecasts of magnetic storms, as well as work with the humanoid robot Teledroid. Additionally, Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina are expected to conduct two spacewalks. NASA reported that Anil Menon will be involved in growing crystals in microgravity, studying blood flow using augmented reality and artificial intelligence technologies, as well as experiments in bioprinting vascular tissues. The launch took place against the backdrop of ongoing attention to the technical condition of the Russian segment of the ISS. In June of this year, reports indicated a continuing air leak in the Zvezda module; however, the flight of Soyuz MS-29 is proceeding normally. Welcome aboard the International Space Station, @astro_anil.Your mission is just getting started. Wishing you and your crewmates a successful expedition as you advance research and inspire millions back here on Earth. pic.twitter.com/Vp9ceT1Ea5— NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman (@NASAAdmin) July 14, 2026