There are some events that become immortal in the pages of history. The first time that humans landed on the Moon was definitely one of them. And now, SpaceX launching NASA astronauts to space has become another.
This was surely a long time coming. Elon Musk and SpaceX have worked very hard for 18 years to make this possible. And what an achievement to do it in the midst of a global pandemic. It will surely be talked about for decades and even centuries to come.
The reason why this launch is being called historic is that after nine long years, NASA has finally sent astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) from American soil onboard an American spacecraft. For the last nine years, they were relying on the Russians. Also, it's the first time ever that a private company has sent astronauts into space.
This event will also mark a departure from the age-old mentality that government space agencies will be the ones who will spread mankind in the cosmos. Private entrepreneurs are now up for that challenge and from the looks of it, they are better suited to do so.
SpaceX's Historic Day
The launch was first slated to take place a few days ago but had to be delayed due to bad weather. But on 30th May, they finally did it. NASA's administrator Jim Bridenstine said, "I'm breathing a sigh of relief but I will also tell you - I'm not gonna celebrate until Bob and Doug are home safely."
Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley are the two astronauts that got to ride on the brand new Crew Dragon spacecraft. The launch took place from the historic Launch Complex 39A, the same pad from which the first manned mission to the moon took place.
It took merely 9 minutes for the Falcon 9 rocket to enter orbit. The first stage booster made its way to the drone ship "Of Course I Still Love You". Anyone who is familiar with SpaceX and their technology would know that they managed to make rockets reusable. This is what allows them to launch people and cargo to space at a much more affordable price than the others.
SpaceX CEO, Elon Musk had earlier said, "This is the culmination of a dream. This is a dream come true. In fact, it feels surreal. If you asked me when starting SpaceX if this would happen, I'd be like, one percent - 0.1 percent chance."
Everybody is extremely excited and happy that the launch took successfully. From now on, it is possible that SpaceX would most probably conduct most of the astronaut launches. The company has other bigger ambitions as well and from the looks of it, they will get there.
Image Credits: SpaceX
Quite a historical moment indeed. Exploring space is fascinating for humanity
Agreed. It is very fascinating :)
An epic moment I just saw that the astronauts arrived at the space station we are following live on YouTube.
Yeah! It really was an epic moment. One that people would remember for a long time.