SpaceX is due to launch one of its Falcon 9 rockets from a Cape Canaveral launch pad on January 18th.  So far, so normal. It will fly of some 88 seconds but then the plan is to explode the rocket.

This deliberate move is designed to test SpaceX’s Crew Dragon accommodation capsule. The explosion will happen about 31 kms down range, due East from the launch site. If all goes to plan SpaceX’s ‘SuperDraco’ engines on board the crew capsule will then kick in and propel the capsule away from the explosion and using its parachutes come to a safe, if watery, landing.

NASA and SpaceX need to demonstrate that the Falcon 9 and Crew Dragon concept functions as designed and has a workable emergency escape system.

The flight is due to take place at 08.00 (Eastern Time)/13.00 GMT and SpaceX says it will screen the event live (as will NASA).

Other posts by Chris Forrester:

1. Icasa “over-reached” in confiscating StarSat kit
2. Starlink tests D2C in Romania, US, Japan
3. European telcos unite against Starlink D2C
4. Rivada insists “deadlines will be met”
5. Ergen will gain “greatest opportunity” by losing DISH
6. Rivada’s latest problems could be fatal
7. SES confirms 25c dividend
8. Intelsat gets licence to rescue Galaxy 25
9. Bank downgrades Virgin Galactic

Categories: Blogs, Inside Satellite, Satellite