Name: SpaceX becomes first private company to launch NASA astronauts into space
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SpaceX becomes first private company to launch NASA astronauts into space

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For the first time in nearly a decade, NASA launched astronauts into space from U.S. territory. And for the first time ever, it was on a spacecraft built by a private company, Elon Musk's SpaceX.The company's reusable Falcon 9 rocket took off from Florida's Kennedy Space Center on Saturday after the first attempt was aborted Wednesday. The Crew Dragon spacecraft carries two NASA astronauts, and , who are expected to reach the International Space Station (ISS) on Sunday.Ever since NASA's Space Shuttle program ended in 2011, the U.S. has used Russia's Soyuz rockets to take astronauts into space.&nbsp;Sadly, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were no big crowds to watch the launch, both on Wednesday and Saturday.The astronauts even had to virtually hug their families goodbye because of the pandemic.With Saturday's launch, SpaceX is on its way to becoming the first private company to carry NASA astronauts to the ISS. The success of brings the U.S. closer to eventually bringing astronauts back to the Moon, and then possibly on to Mars."I'm the chief engineer," Musk told ahead of Wednesday's attempt. "So I'd just like to say if it goes right, it's credit to the SpaceX-NASA team. If it goes wrong, it's my fault."Just before Saturday's rescheduled launch, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine praised Musk. "[He's] brought vision and inspiration," he said Friday at a NASA news conference. "He’s brilliant, he’s capable."Wednesday's launch was only 16 minutes from takeoff, but unfavorable weather conditions kept the rocket and spacecraft from blasting the two astronauts to the ISS. Rocket fuel had been loaded and the astronauts were settled in the hatch with their SpaceX spacesuits. The weather cooperated for Saturday's launch, despite NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine that there remained a "50% chance of cancellation" due to weather. The launch went off without a hitch, and the reusable SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket that carried the Crew Dragon capsule into orbit safely detached from the capsule and returned to Earth's atmosphere, where it landedFrom here, the mission will see NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley head to the International Space Station – a 19-hour journey. The Crew Dragon capsule will then dock with the station and deliver its passengers and cargo. NASA will determine the return trip timing for Behnken and Hurley at a later date.You can watch the full launch right here.'Thank God I didn't give up on me.'8 hours agoByHow to watch the action if you don't have pay TV.09/12/2022ByWerewolves in the MCU. This news left us howling.09/11/2022ByLogan Lerman, where are you?09/11/2022ByOur favorite "clan of two" is returning soon.09/11/2022By"Professionalism is racist, sexist, classist, and ableist."16 hours agoByBased on new international standards, it's a step in the right direction for national gun reform.09/11/2022ByBritain's new monarch could have become King Philip, Arthur, or George. Here's why he stood by Charles, the least worst option.09/09/2022ByReady, set, shop.09/09/2022By andEverything you need to know about the protocols, rules, and the accession of the British throne.09/08/2022ByIs 'Wordle' #451 stumping you? Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer.23 hours agoByThe good, the bad, and the WTF.13 hours agoByThis is good to go? Everyone fine with it? OK...15 hours agoByIs 'Wordle' #450 stumping you? Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer.09/12/2022ByRalph is the first Black woman to win in her category in 35 years.23 hours agoByThe biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.By signing up to the Mashable newsletter you agree to receive electronic communicationsfrom Mashable that may sometimes include advertisements or sponsored content.Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!

For the first time in nearly a decade, NASA launched astronauts into space from U.S. territory. And for the first time ever, it was on a spacecraft built by a private company, Elon Musk's SpaceX.The company's reusable Falcon 9 rocket took off from Florida's Kennedy Space Center on Saturday after the first attempt was aborted Wednesday. The Crew Dragon spacecraft carries two NASA astronauts, and , who are expected to reach the International Space Station (ISS) on Sunday.Ever since NASA's Space Shuttle program ended in 2011, the U.S. has used Russia's Soyuz rockets to take astronauts into...

SpaceX becomes first private company to launch NASA astronauts into space

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