Tue, May 31, 2005
SpaceX has successfully
completed their first full launch wet dress rehearsal,
including execution of all launch operations and a hold down firing
of the Falcon I at its newly activated site, Space Launch Complex 3
West at Vandenberg Air Force Base. This comprehensive test
exercised Falcon vehicle systems and range safety interfaces to
ensure optimal operations during the upcoming launch campaign. The
test included erecting the integrated flight vehicle, a complete
countdown sequence and firing of the Merlin main engine.
"Today we completed the largest milestone remaining before
launch," said Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX. "In a few months, we will
receive Air Force clearance to fly and Falcon I will make its
maiden voyage. With the lowest cost per flight in the world for a
production rocket and superlative design reliability, it has the
potential to be the world leader in launches per year."
SpaceX received approval for this launch readiness test from the
30th Space Wing Commander at Vandenberg Air Force Base following
unanimous recommendations from range safety, range operations, the
mission director and the USAF and Aerospace Corporation independent
review team. The maiden flight of Falcon I, carrying the Defense
Department's TacSat-1 satellite, is scheduled to follow the launch
of the last Titan IV from Vandenberg in late summer. SpaceX will
launch two more vehicles within the upcoming twelve months and was
recently awarded a $100 million contract from the U.S. Air Force
for satellite launch services.
SpaceX is developing a family of launch vehicles intended to
increase the reliability and reduce the cost of access to space by
a factor of ten. Located in El Segundo, California, the company was
founded by CEO Elon Musk in June 2002. SpaceX is the third company
founded by Mr. Musk. Previously he co-founded PayPal, Inc., the
world's leading electronic payment system, which sold to online
auction giant eBay(TM) for $1.5 billion in 2002.
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