SpaceX Launches Dragon Rocket
Posted in: space, Space Tech, Today's Chili
California-based Space Explorations Technology (SpaceX) launched a test run of its Dragon capsule this morning. The first-ever privately owned space craft lifted off from Cape Canaveral at 10:45 ET. The capsule will separate from the company’s Falcon 9 rocket. Once out of the atmosphere, it will orbit Earth and transmit signals.
The Dragon will only orbit for a few hours, after which it drop down into the Pacific. The next step in the plans–should today’s launch prove successful–involves a five day mission, with the Dragon capsule getting within six miles of the International Space Station.
In the future, the ship may be used to supply the International Space Station, once NASA retires its fleet.
The launch was initially scheduled for 9:00, but was pushed back for unknown reasons.
Post a Comment