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SpaceX and Axiom Space launch four civilian astronauts to the International Space Station Sunday, against a partly cloudy sky that blocked the view for some spectators on land.

When and where is the launch?

took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Florida’s Atlantic coast.

-It launched at 5:37 p.m. EDT Sunday.

-The rocket’s booster landed at the adjacent Cape Canaveral Air Force Station about 8 minutes later, providing a treat for spectators.

-Weather was go ahead of the launch, according to launch day forecast from the U.S. Space Force’s 45th Weather Squadron.

-Some popular viewing areas in nearby Cocoa Beach were expected to be crowded due to a weekend boat race.

Weather.com senior meteorologist Jonathan Erdman added, before the launch:

-“We’re now entering Florida’s wet season, when scattered thunderstorms become virtually a daily concern, especially in the afternoon.”

-“That said, we expect most of Sunday afternoon’s thunderstorms to be west of the Space Coast, as the sea-breeze front pushes inland.”

-“If the Sunday launch is scrubbed, Monday’s forecast looks more complicated, with a better chance of more numerous thunderstorms in Florida, potentially including Cape Canaveral.”

What you should also know:

-Houston-based aims to eventually build the world’s first commercial space station.

-The mission, called AX-2, is the second all-private mission to the ISS.

-The four-person international crew is led by former NASA astronaut , who has spent a total of 665 days in space.

-Research during their eight days at the ISS will include taking images of thunderstorms, lightning and transient luminous events, or , also known as sprites, elves or blue jets.

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J​an Childs covers space, climate, news and features for weather.com

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