SpaceX becomes first private firm to launch craft to space station - Telegraph

Answer 1

SpaceX has become the first private firm to successfully launch an unmanned cargo-carrying capsule on a test flight to the International Space Station.

The capsule called the Dragon was initially set to launch on May 19. The launch was called off due to an engine glitch caused by a faulty check valve.

While in orbit, the Dragon will undergo a series of tests and if NASA approves, it will dock the ISS on May 25. Astronauts on board the ISS will grab the robotic arm and attach the capsule to a docking port to unload and restock cargo.

The Dragon is expected to land in the Pacific Ocean near southern California on May 31.

NASA has given SpaceX $390 million in grants and a $1.6 billion contract for further supply missions.

Previously, Russia, Japan and Europe were the only space agencies that were able to deliver supplies to the ISS.

Russia became the only space agency able to take astronauts to the ISS after the US space shuttle program ended in 2011.

SpaceX and other private firms are also receiving funding from NASA to develop a crew vehicle to carry astronauts.

Currently, NASA pays Russia about $63 million per astronaut to send crew to the ISS. SpaceX hopes to develop a more affordable commercial crew vehicle in the coming years.