SpaceX

Officially known as Space Exploration Technologies Corporation, SpaceX is a NewSpace space company. The company was founded in 2002 by the entrepreneur Elon Musk. Elon Musk was the founder of PayPal and the proceeds from that creation was used to start SpaceX.

• Space Exploration Technologies
• 1310 East Grand Avenue
• El Segundo, CA 90245

Products and Services

• Merlin Engine - A medium thrust LOX / Kerosene rocket motor. The propellant, of the Merlin engine, is fed via a single shaft, dual impeller turbo-pump using a gas generator cycle. The turbo-pump is also used for hydraulic power during launch. The working hydraulic fluid is the kerosine fuel, saving weight and reducing system complexity.

• Falcon 1 - A two stage to orbit rocket using one Merlin engine on the first stage.
  • Length: 21.3 m (70 ft)
  • Width: 1.7 m (5.5 ft)
  • Mass: 38,555 kg (85 klbs)
  • Liftoff Thrust: 454 kN (102 klbf)

• Falcon 9 - A nine engine rocket.

Historical Events

First Falcon 1 Launch

COTS contract with NASA

Second Falcon 1 Launch

Joint Ventures and Partnerships

With NASA

Future Plans

Launchs

External Links

Media & Articles

• Interview with Elon Musk and VP of Development Operations (NasaSpaceFlight.com, January 20, 2006)
• Broadcast interviews with Elon Musk about SpaceX (The Space Show)

Related Organizations

• Space Exploration Technologies - SpaceX official website
• National Aeronatutics and Space Administratio