Kennedy Space Center, Florida – An Air Force major has blasted off into the stars, piloting NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 mission. Astronaut and U.S. Air Force Maj. Nichole “Vapor” Ayers took the helm of the Dragon spacecraft, launched atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on March 14, 2025, at 7:03 p.m. EDT. The daring takeoff from Kennedy Space Center lit up the night sky as Ayers led her crew to the International Space Station.

This isn’t her first high-flying feat. Ayers has clocked over 200 combat hours in Operation Inherent Resolve, battling above Iraq and Syria. She’s also racked up more than 1,400 flight hours in the T-38 Talon and F-22 Raptor. Before NASA tapped her in 2021, she was stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, serving as assistant director of operations for the 3rd Wing, 90th Fighter Squadron.

Moments before liftoff, Ayers delivered heartfelt thanks to the mission team, her crew’s family, and friends. Her voice steady, she spoke from the launchpad, ready to steer the SpaceX Dragon into orbit. Now, she’s made history, swapping fighter jets for a spacecraft on a mission watched by millions.

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