Krypton Radio Newswire
Thus ends the first successful mission of a commercial spacecraft to the International Space Station
We have splashdown! – At 11:42 a.m. EDT – Splash Down footage will be added to story as made available
Commercial space vehicle company Space X has made history by proving that reusable commercial spacecraft are not only feasible, but reliable. Has done so in grand style with the first and successful mission of it’s Dragon Capsule, which has not only taken cargo to the International Space Station, but has brought materials back. Launched on May 22, 2012 – A Space X Falcon 9 rocket, lifted the Dragon Cargo capsule up to the waiting ISS and ushered in a new era for spaceflight. In a press release from NASA, the space agencies Administrator was quoted as saying: “We’re now back on the brink of a new future, a future that embraces the innovation the private sector brings to the table” – “The significance of this day cannot be overstated. While there is a lot of work ahead to successfully complete this mission, we are off to a good start.”
The Dragon capsule on launch was carrying about 1,200 pounds of supplies consisting of mostly food and clothing, along with experiments designed by students. Originally designed to handle up to 7,300 pounds, the ship only carried important but not critical supplies on its maiden voyage. With this milestone achieved, it seems safe to say that Space X and NASA can look forward to putting heavier loads, and more critical equipment on future flights.
