Hi Im trying to find out a couple things about my grandfathers ship in WWII. (USS Astute)

It was laid down Dec 7 1942 and launched on Feb 23rd 1943 at Tampa Shipbuilding Co. It was sponsored by Mrs. M.L. Haney.

What happens when a ship is laid down, does it go in the water yet, is this when spectators would watch, is the crew aboard for this? And what happens when a ship is launched, is this the first time it hits water, first time spectators watch, first time crew is aboard?

Also looking for information on the Ship's sponsor M.L. Haney? Anyone heard of the name, maybe a prominent Tampa lady?