The Dragon spacecraft completed deployment of its two solar arrays and is flying free in its preliminary orbit to catch up with the International Space Station. The first stage returned to land safely as well and crews at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station are safing the stage. NASA’s Mission Control in Houston and SpaceX mission controllers are overseeing the performance of the uncrewed spacecraft as it heads to the station to deliver some 5,500 pounds of materials including experiments.
The Dragon’s twin solar arrays are deployed. It will take about two minutes to complete the process. The arrays will generate power for the spacecraft during its flight to the space station.
Spacecraft Sep: Dragon has deployed and is now on its own to pursue the International Space Station to deliver experiments and equipment.
The second stage engine has shutdown as planned.
The first stage returned to its landing site at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
The second stage continues to burn as planned to lift the Dragon into orbit.
The Dragon’s fairing has jettisoned as planned.
The second stage of the Falcon 9 is now thrusting after the first stage separated. All systems good.
The first stage engines are generating thrust and the launch vehicle is going through the sound barrier.
The SpaceX Falcon 9 lifts off and the Dragon cargo ship is on the way to orbit!
