May 22
Location: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
Launch Update as of Saturday, May 19, 8:30 a.m. EST:
Due to high chamber pressure in engine five of the Falcon 9 rocket, today's launch was aborted. The next possible launch attempt is Tuesday, May 22 at 3:44 a.m.
Guests are invited to the Space Coast area to witness the beginning of a new era with the first historic launch of a commercial spacecraft. SpaceX’s Dragon capsule, launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket, will be the first commercial spacecraft to rendezvous and berth with the International Space Station.
The capsule will fly by the International Space Station within two miles, performing tests and ensuring that all sensors and flight systems are functioning properly. The capsule will then approach the International Space Station to be grabbed by the robotic arm controlled by the space station crew inside.
Completing the mission will be a successful splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.
Due to the early launch time, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will not be opening early. The Visitor Complex will open at 9:00 a.m. following the launch. Click here for recommended viewing locations within the area.
Be sure to check our website, Facebook and Twitter accounts for updates.