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SpaceX Rocket Cleared to Launch Tuesday Morning

Computer image showing Dragon approaching the ISS
Computer image showing Dragon approaching the ISS

The private space craft manufacturer says it's fixed the problem that led to a launch abort moments before lift off Saturday morning.

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Engineers inspected engine five on the Falcon 9 rocket and discovered a faulty check valve. High pressure in the engine caused it to shut off with less than a second before launch Saturday morning.

SpaceX spokesperson Kirstin Brost Grantham said the failed valve was replaced Saturday night.

"After thorough analysis the vehicle has been cleared for launch," Grantham said in a statement.

Tomorrow's lift off from Cape Canaveral is scheduled for 3.44am Eastern Time.

After the Dragon spacecraft on top of the rocket makes it into orbit, it will spend several days running through maneuvers around the International Space Station to determine whether it is ready to berth with the station.

If NASA is satisfied with the maneuvers, the ISS will use its robotic arm to bring the space craft in to dock with the orbiting station on Friday May 25th.

After unloading supplies to the station the Dragon capsule will return to earth, splashing down in the Pacific next week.

NASA and SpaceX say a successful mission will be a crucial step in the commercial crew program to give the US the ability to once more fly astronauts into orbit.

With the retirement of the shuttle program last year, US astronauts currently get to the space station on Russian space craft.

 

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