Elon Musk is launching a Tesla into space – here’s how SpaceX will do it

Elon Musk’s SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket is scheduled for launch on February 6, and the entire space industry is watching with anticipation.

What is so special about this rocket? This vehicle will be the first of its kind, the world’s most powerful launch vehicle and targeting an unprecedented level of reusability. The launch has been delayed on numerous occasions since 2013, but if the mission is a success, we will be one step closer to Musk’s incredibly ambitious aim to launch a manned Mars mission within the next decade.

However, rocket science is famously difficult. As CEO of SpaceX, Musk himself is uncharacteristically reserved, stating:

“I hope it makes it far enough from the pad that it does not cause pad damage. I would consider that a win.”

We will have to wait and see. In typical Musk flair, the first payload will be his Tesla Roadster – which is set to become the world’s fastest car following its launch into a heliocentric orbit.

Full story: theconversation.com

By Ben Thornber
The Conversation