SpaceX: COTS 2 & 3
Well it looks like things continue to just keep getting better for SpaceX, the American commercial space company. They've already had great successes with their Falcon rockets and Dragon capsules, and they're about to be put to the test once more.
Late last year, NASA agreed to let SpaceX perform the last two tests on the capsule with one mission, before they could start regular missions to the ISS. So with the target date of February 7th, they'll be launching a Dragon capsule with a full load of cargo to the ISS, for a series of demonstrations. First the capsule will hold position away from the ISS, and perform various maneuvers and such to prove that it can operate properly within the safe zone of the station.
Then, if all goes according to plan, they'll bring the ISS in to dock with the station, which is the final test. Once there, cargo will be offloaded, additional tests and inspections will be done on the capsule, then the ISS crew will load it up with stuff to take back home. It will all end with a hopefully successful re-entry and landing of the capsule.
I wish SpaceX luck! Their rocket system and capsule seem to be rather top notch, and quite a cost savings over other former and current space systems. Here's hoping they get to start sending people up with their capsule on schedule. :3
Late last year, NASA agreed to let SpaceX perform the last two tests on the capsule with one mission, before they could start regular missions to the ISS. So with the target date of February 7th, they'll be launching a Dragon capsule with a full load of cargo to the ISS, for a series of demonstrations. First the capsule will hold position away from the ISS, and perform various maneuvers and such to prove that it can operate properly within the safe zone of the station.
Then, if all goes according to plan, they'll bring the ISS in to dock with the station, which is the final test. Once there, cargo will be offloaded, additional tests and inspections will be done on the capsule, then the ISS crew will load it up with stuff to take back home. It will all end with a hopefully successful re-entry and landing of the capsule.
I wish SpaceX luck! Their rocket system and capsule seem to be rather top notch, and quite a cost savings over other former and current space systems. Here's hoping they get to start sending people up with their capsule on schedule. :3