The Falcon 9 main engines were successfully tested in earlier this month in Texas, and passed structural and propulsion tests. The first stage will now go to Florida for integration with the rest of the rocket in anticipation of a launch this winter. A SpaceX press release provides information about just what kind of thrust is generated, putting it "on par with the Saturn V F-1 engine."
Like Falcon 1 (video), the craft is among the first commercial vehicles built to reach Earth orbit.
The rocket will make its maiden flight later this year, "anywhere from one to three months after Falcon 9 is integrated at the Cape in November," according to SpaceX. A Dragon qualification unit will also be lofted to gain insight into performance characteristics of the two vehicles. Dragon will be used for cargo resupply, and, potentially, to carry crew to the ISS.
Wayne
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