AFP news agency reported at 11:43 (GMT) on December 8, from the Kanaveral space airport, the Falcon 9 boosters carrying SpaceX's Dragon private spacecraft were launched into orbit. Land.
Exactly 10 minutes after being launched, Dragon successfully entered Earth's orbit. Dragon spacecraft will land after performing 2 rounds of Earth. If successful, SpaceX will be the first private company to successfully put into orbit and safely land a spaceship.
>> The image of "passenger" compartment of Dragon
>> Images of the first launch of a private spacecraft into orbit
During this first launch, Dragon did not bring " passengers . " It is expected that in the next launches in 2011, Dragon will transport astronauts to ISS International Space Station with goods. According to the design, Dragon has enough room for 7 people and accompanying cargo, however, before making these flights, SpaceX will conduct a test flight once again for Dragon.
Private spacecraft is considered by the US to be an alternative to the current shuttle program. Earlier, in March this year, SpaceX Company successfully launched the Falcon 9. rocket. According to the original plan, this " privatization " program costs about $ 3.5 billion.
Private spacecraft is considered by the US to be an alternative to the current shuttle program. Earlier, in March this year, SpaceX Company successfully launched the Falcon 9. rocket. According to the original plan, this " privatization " program costs about $ 3.5 billion.
Images of the "passenger" compartment of Dragon:
Images of the first launch of a private spacecraft into orbit:
