SpaceX Conducting Critical In-Flight Abort Test

SpaceX will conduct a critical test of its launch abort system as it gets closer to sending humans into space.

A Falcon 9 rocket will launch from the Kennedy Space Center Saturday then simulate a failure 90-seconds after liftoff. Next, rocket motors on the Dragon capsule will fire, parachutes will deploy, and the capsule will splash down in the Atlantic.

The Falcon 9 will be destroyed as it plummets into the ocean.

SpaceX needs to pass this test so it can start carrying humans to the space station later this year.

The four-hour launch window opens at 8-a.m. Eastern Time and forecasters say there's a 90% chance of good weather. The weather odds drop off sharply if the mission has to be delayed until Sunday.

Image courtesy Getty


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