SpaceX confirms commercial ambitions with SS/L contract

SpaceX has signed a contract with Space Systems Loral for the launch of an SS/L satellite on its Falcon 9 rocket as early as 2012.
The deal is welcome news for the commercial sector, which had looked on as the manifest for Falcon 9, previously considered…

SpaceX has signed a contract with Space Systems Loral for the launch of an SS/L satellite on its Falcon 9 rocket as early as 2012.

The deal is welcome news for the commercial sector, which had looked on as the manifest for Falcon 9, previously considered as a valuable new low-cost launch option, was filled up with NASA missions carrying cargo to the International Space Station.

The choice of SS/L as the partner for this contract is especially encouraging, as it specialises in large, high cost commercial satellites, proving that SpaceX is serious about playing some kind of role in the commercial sector alongside its NASA obligations. Details as to the potential satellite operator that will own the SS/L built satellite have not been released.

SpaceX has also successfully conducted the first static test fire of all 9 Merlin engines on its Falcon 9 rocket at Cape Canaveral.

The test was a vital milestone to be passed prior to the inaugural launch of the Falcon 9, which could now take place as early as April. The only remaining procedures needed to occur are tests on the rocket’s flight termination system.