Elon Musk’s SpaceX launches monster rocket on first test flight
SpaceX’s big new rocket has blasted off on its first test flight, carrying a red sports car on an endless road trip past Mars.
SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rocket takes off this morning. Photo: EPA/Cristobal Herrera
The Falcon Heavy rocket rose on Tuesday from the same Florida launch pad used by NASA nearly 50 years ago to send men to the moon. With liftoff, the Heavy became the most powerful rocket in use today.
The three boosters and 27 engines roared to life at Kennedy Space Centre, where thousands gathered to watch the launch which had been delayed by high wind.
Two of the boosters are recycled and programed to return for another touchdown on land. The third is brand new and has its sights on an ocean platform.
SpaceX chief executive Elon Musk owns the rocketing Tesla Roadster, which is aiming for a solar orbit reaching Mars.
View from SpaceX Launch Control. Apparently, there is a car in orbit around Earth. pic.twitter.com/QljN2VnL1O
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 6, 2018
Watch the launch below, from about 29 minutes.
We’re anxiously awaiting the @SpaceX launch. Hope this thing goes. Good thing we have someplace to sit while we wait. #falconheavy pic.twitter.com/ikZGTTskex
— Buzz Aldrin (@TheRealBuzz) February 6, 2018
Liftoff! pic.twitter.com/2ypESsi1sF
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) February 6, 2018
– AP
