Trending News|November 26, 2013 02:25 EST
Space X Launch Delayed Until Thanksgiving: Private Space Flight Company Will Launch First Commercial Communications Satellite
Space X Launch Delayed Until Thanksgiving: Private Space Flight Company Will Launch First Commercial Communications Satellite
The private space flight company Space X attempted to launch a satellite yesterday, but the Falcon 9 rocket was plagued with technical problems and could not launch. The launch has been rescheduled for Thanksgiving Day. Space X officials released a statement about the failed launch, saying, "We observed unexpected readings with the first stage liquid oxygen system so we decided to investigate. The launch vehicle and satellite are in great shape and we are looking forward to the next launch opportunity on Thursday at 5:38 PM Eastern Time."
The launch will be Space X's first entry into the ever-growing market of commercial satellites. The satellite is designed to provide service to customers in the South Asia and Pacific region of the world.
Space X is developing a manned capsule called a Dragon Spacecraft that will ferry astronauts to and from the International Space Station. They will also develop this technology into a commercial space flight service, which will allow customers to buy flights into space through Space X's vehicles.
Space X currently has a $1.6 billion dollar contract with NASA for 12 commercial grade space vehicles to shuttle astronauts to and from the International Space Station.
If you haven't already, check out SPACE.com for updates on Space X next-generation space vehicles and also the Falcon 9 launch scheduled for Thanksgiving.
Will you tune in to watch the Falcon 9 rocket launch? Let us know what you think about next-generation space travel in the comments!