SpaceX aims to launch its first recycled rocket for NASA today, following a couple of delays.
The launch window opens at 10:36 a.m. ET. The event will be streamed live on CBC News.
Falcon 9 and Dragon went vertical on SLC-40 early this morning. Weather is 90% favorable for today’s launch at 10:36 a.m. EST, 15:36 UTC. pic.twitter.com/8i5Gxy9zhr
— @SpaceX
The unmanned Falcon rocket originally flew in June. The Dragon capsule made a space station shipment in 2015.
This will be the first launch in more than a year from this Florida pad, the scene of a rocket explosion in 2016.
Late Tuesday, SpaceX pushed back the launch for the second day in a row, saying it needs to rid the second-stage fuel system of unwanted particles. Liftoff had been scheduled for Tuesday, then Wednesday.
Taking additional time for the team to conduct full inspections and cleanings due to detection of particles in 2nd stage fuel system. Now targeting CRS-13 launch from SLC-40 on Dec. 15. Next launch opportunity would be no earlier than late December.
— @SpaceX
If the Falcon isn’t flying by Friday, SpaceX will have to wait until late December at NASA’s request, based on sunlight restrictions on the orbiting lab.
As before, SpaceX will attempt to land the first-stage booster back at Cape Canaveral after liftoff. SpaceX chief Elon Musk is pushing to lower launch costs by reusing the most expensive rocket parts.
The Dragon holds nearly 5,000 pounds of supplies, including a barley experiment for Budweiser.
The next @SpaceX resupply mission to the @Space_Station will deliver critical science and research to measure solar energy, monitor orbital debris & combat muscular breakdown. Learn more: https://t.co/GcYbZqQtgB pic.twitter.com/PmgHorN0NR
— @NASA