Californian launch provider SpaceX has successfully test-fired the second stage of its Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The rocket, which uses one Merlin rocket engine as opposed to the nine used in the first stage, fired for 329 seconds, simulating the engine…
Californian launch provider SpaceX has successfully test-fired the second stage of its Falcon 9 launch vehicle. The rocket, which uses one Merlin rocket engine as opposed to the nine used in the first stage, fired for 329 seconds, simulating the engine burn that will be required to place cargo into orbit.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk said that the test means that the inaugural flight of the Falcon 9 will be made by May. Writing on the SpaceX website, he said: “This was the final stage firing required for launch, so the second stage will soon be packaged for shipment and should arrive at Cape Canaveral by end of month. Depending on how well full vehicle integration goes, launch should occur one to three months later.”
The first Falcon 9 flight will carry a preliminary version of its Dragon cargo capsule, which will be used in its future flights to resupply the International Space Station.
