SpaceX Tests Dragon 2 - Capsule Hovers Successfully

SpaceX tested its human-rated spacecraft Crew Dragon, also called Dragon 2, at its facility in McGregor, Texas, and the success established its ability to hover during flight. In the long run, the aerospace manufacturer and space transport services company hopes to use such thrusters to land the craft back on ground so that people and payloads can be sent and brought back safe and sound. NASA confirms that such abilities “would be used to slow the vehicle’s return” giving it enough time to land and minimising accidental risks.


The test is an element of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program designed to get commercial companies under NASA’s umbrella and get its astronauts to the International Space Station. Boeing is another such company, and is developing its CST-100 Starliner capsule for the same.

The footage shows the Dragon 2 attached held on to by a cable. As its eight SuperDraco thrusters fire at the same instant, the vehicle begins to hover under its own power, and it does so for five seconds. SpaceX says the jet packs generate a 33000 lbs thrust for the vehicle to remains at its position. This “propulsive landing” technique, however, will not be used to carry crew for starters. Instead, the capsule will splash down into the ocean under parachutes when carrying passengers.


In May 2015, SpaceX conducted the first flight test for Dragon 2 that ensured that the Dragon’s abort system was in perfect order, among many other positive inferences. This hover test is another major boost to the company’s repute and if all goes well, the capsule will be mounted on a Falcon 9 for trips to the ISS.

A lot more awaits SpaceX this year – its rocket recovery tests, NASA cargo contracts, engine development for the Air Force and the betterment of this benchmark – the company will surely try to strengthen its foothold in the business and commerce of space exploration and research.

Source: SpaceX Tests SuperDraco Descent Landing Capability – Commercial Crew Program