Star Wars enthusiasts tuning into the SpaceX launch last night were delighted by a charming surprise: Baby Yoda was on board, heading towards the International Space Station (ISS). The beloved character from The Mandalorian has had a phenomenal year, captivating audiences since his debut on Disney+. From themed cosmetics like the Little One eyeshadow palette by ColourPop to plush toys available at Build-A-Bear, Baby Yoda has become a cultural phenomenon. He even touched hearts this summer when a young boy gifted him to firefighters battling wildfires in Oregon.
Last night’s launch featured the adorable stowaway alongside four NASA astronauts on their mission to the ISS. Observant fans noticed Baby Yoda’s presence, which served a significant purpose. It’s a tradition for manned spaceflights to carry a plush toy, as it acts as a zero-gravity indicator. When Baby Yoda (or any stuffed companion) starts to float, it signals that the crew has officially exited Earth’s gravitational influence.
Past missions have included similar companions. For instance, during the initial crewed launch by SpaceX, astronauts Mark and Sarah brought along a sequined dinosaur picked by their children. On the Crew Dragon’s first uncrewed test flight, it transported a plush doll named Buddy as its zero-gravity marker. Following their space adventures, these toys often become hot commodities, quickly selling out in stores.
We believe Baby Yoda might be the cutest plush friend to embark on a space journey. He’s part of a crucial mission—once Crew Dragon docks at the ISS, the team of NASA astronauts will spend six months aboard, marking the longest human spaceflight in NASA history and the first collaboration between NASA and SpaceX.
To watch a video of the launch and see if you can spot Baby Yoda, check out NASA’s YouTube channel, which offers footage from the launch and a continuous livestream of the ongoing mission. The spacecraft is expected to dock at 8 p.m. Pacific Time, giving you ample time to catch a glimpse of this adorable crew member.
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In summary, Baby Yoda’s presence on the SpaceX mission added a heartwarming touch to an important milestone in space exploration. As astronauts embark on this historic journey, the cute plush companion serves as a reminder of the joy and excitement of space travel.