CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida (AP) — Bad weather has postponed the first launch of NASA astronauts from Florida in nine years.

The next attempt is scheduled for Saturday.

Original Story:

With thunder threatening a delay, two NASA astronauts are on the launch pad for the liftoff of a SpaceX rocket ship on a history-making flight to the International Space Station.

The mission is seen as a giant leap forward for the booming business of commercial space travel.

Space veterans Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken are scheduled to ride into orbit Wednesday afternoon around 3:30 p.m. Central time aboard the brand-new Dragon capsule.

Proud to have Missouri native Bob Behnken represent our great state during his mission to the International Space Station.

Good luck to Astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley during liftoff this afternoon. Safe travels! #LaunchAmerica https://t.co/AHLUV3EePC

— Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) May 27, 2020

It will be the first time in nearly a decade that the United States has launched astronauts into orbit from U.S. soil.