Spacex Definition and 75 Threads

Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) is an American aerospace manufacturer, space transportation services and communications company headquartered in Hawthorne, California. SpaceX was founded in 2002 by Elon Musk with the goal of reducing space transportation costs to enable the colonization of Mars. SpaceX manufactures the Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy launch vehicles, several rocket engines, Dragon cargo, crew spacecraft and Starlink communications satellites.
SpaceX's achievements include the first privately funded liquid-propellant rocket to reach orbit (Falcon 1 in 2008), the first private company to successfully launch, orbit, and recover a spacecraft (Dragon in 2010), the first private company to send a spacecraft to the International Space Station (Dragon in 2012), the first vertical take-off and vertical propulsive landing for an orbital rocket (Falcon 9 in 2015), the first reuse of an orbital rocket (Falcon 9 in 2017), and the first private company to send astronauts to orbit and to the International Space Station (SpaceX Crew Dragon Demo-2 in 2020). SpaceX has flown and reflown the Falcon 9 series of rockets over one hundred times.
SpaceX is developing a satellite megaconstellation named Starlink to provide commercial internet service. In January 2020 the Starlink constellation became the largest satellite constellation in the world. SpaceX is also developing Starship, a privately funded, fully reusable, super heavy-lift launch system for interplanetary spaceflight. Starship is intended to become the primary SpaceX orbital vehicle once operational, supplanting the existing Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy and Dragon fleet. Starship will be fully reusable and will have the highest payload capacity of any orbital rocket ever on its debut, scheduled for the early 2020s.

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  1. T

    Bad News for SpaceX Starship -- Raptor Engine Exploded

    https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/spacex-raptor-engine-test-explosion In a tweet accompanying a clip from the footage, NASASpaceflight wrote, “The raptor testing stand at McGregor experienced an anomaly a few moments ago. The vapors from the anomaly caused a secondary explosion on...
  2. .Scott

    Artistically Ornated Atmosphere

    That Life Science article is entitled "SpaceX rockets keep tearing blood-red 'atmospheric holes' in the sky, and scientists are concerned". The article suggests "astronomy and communications" as potential "unrecognized problems". Also from the articles: As a non-expert, non-scientist, I think...
  3. A

    SpaceX Water injection into SpaceX raptor engine during first 10s

    Water injection could increase jet engine thrust by as much as 64% by increasing mass flow and somehow decreasing exhaust speed end temperature. All those effects should be very welcomed for initial 10s of Starship launch, till it clears the tower. How feasible is a contraption that could inject...
  4. berkeman

    SpaceX says 5G expansion would make Starlink 'unusable' for most Americans

    Is this something to pay attention to, or just some big companies posturing against each other? SpaceX says 5G expansion would make Starlink 'unusable' for most Americans
  5. mfb

    SpaceX SpaceX Starship development: fifth flight, captures booster

    Watch the progress live This is a fully stacked Starship (top) and Super Heavy (bottom). A couple of too-small-to-see cars near the bottom for scale, I also added a Saturn V and the Statue of Liberty for comparison. 120 meters tall, about 5000 tonnes when fully fueled. Twice the mass and over...
  6. Benjies

    The vacuum optimized Raptor: No attempt at an expander-bleed cycle

    Hello all, The merits of the full-flow cycle are without question and have been fielded with Starship tests to the point of my complete buy-in into Raptor's capability as a launch engine. Elon Musk loosely discusses further refinement of their vacuum-optimized engine that they have created...
  7. Greg Bernhardt

    SpaceX SpaceX Crew Dragon Launch Try #2

    Here we go again! Set for 3:22PM EST. Lots of analysis in this live video already!
  8. gleem

    SpaceX SpaceX Dragon docking simulator

    Practice your skills at docking Dragon with the ISS. Could be a lot more stressful in the real thing.https://iss-sim.spacex.com/
  9. mfb

    SpaceX SpaceX in-flight abort test (success)

    Edit: This was split out of the space stuff and launch info thread. The in-flight abort of Dragon 2 is planned for Saturday (18th) 13:00 UTC, this is one day and 12 hours after my post. It is a 4 hour launch window, as this is a test it is quite possible that the launch is pushed back within...
  10. X

    SpaceX More details about next-gen 18m SpaceX launch vehicle

    Some days ago, Elon said they will have a 18-diameter spacecraft later. People online think it as a enlarged version of Starship/Superheavy, exactly twice the size, 10 times the power. However, there is no way that thing can even lift off ground (twice the height means one half the TWR) , and...
  11. mfb

    SpaceX What's Next for SpaceX in 2018: Exploring the Limits of Space and Physics?

    All the Wild **** We're Going to Do in Space and Physics in 2018 (forum censors the original title) Featuring all the interplanetary probes and various missions and milestones closer to Earth, the Event Horizon Telescope, Gaia, and a couple of things not directly related to space or...
  12. Monsterboy

    SpaceX SpaceX to conduct a manned flyby mission around the moon

    https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/27/science/spacex-moon-tourists.html?_r=0 I am not an expert in this area, i just want to know what people here think, can SpaceX really do this by 2018 ? or is 2030 more realistic ?
  13. Greg Bernhardt

    SpaceX In 2018 SpaceX will fly two tourists around the moon

    So the question is, who is going!? What price would you pay? http://money.cnn.com/2017/02/27/technology/spacex-moon-tourism/
  14. ramzerimar

    SpaceX About the SpaceX Interplanetary Transport System

    I know Mars colonization is a hot topic these days, and there are a lot of threads on this topic, but I would like to discuss specifically the SpaceX Interplanetary Transport System. There's a video on the subject here. On a recent thread that I posted here, some people came to the conclusion...
  15. mfb

    SpaceX SpaceX: Interplanetary Transport System

    Elon Musk presented SpaceX's plans for its manned missions beyond Earth orbit yesterday. SpaceX is well known for missing their deadlines (like most in the space industry, to be fair), so we'll see how long it will take to develop it. The question how it will look like is clearer already, here...
  16. Boing3000

    SpaceX Critiques on SpaceX Technology: A Closer Look at the Engineering Factors

    Hello everybody, After Googling a little I find very few scientific critiques on SpaceX "technology". Let's forget about economics and purpose. Just the engineering factors. To make a rocket landing on end seems preposterously wasteful (fuel weight) and complicated (engine trust and...
  17. liometopum

    SpaceX Investigating the SpaceX Rocket Explosion of September 1, 2016

    As already posted on PF, and you have likely seen in the news, a SpaceX rocket exploded, September 1, 2016. Elon Musk is reaching out for help in finding out how it happened. http://www.csmonitor.com/Science/2016/0911/SpaceX-needs-you-Musk-calls-on-public-government-in-explosion-probe I took...
  18. T

    SpaceX SpaceX rocket: Explosion at Kennedy Space Center

    They just lost a rocket: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-37247077']SpaceX[/PLAIN] rocket: Explosion at Kennedy Space Center ahead of launch http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-37247077'][/PLAIN]
  19. mfb

    SpaceX SpaceX: Another Falcon 9 ground pad landing

    Second attempt on land today, second success: A Falcon 9 delivered a Dragon capsule on its way to the ISS, and the first stage returned to the launch site and landed. Track record for the "Full Thrust" version so far: 2 out of 2 landings on ground successful 3 out of 5 landings on sea...
  20. 1oldman2

    SpaceX Flawless Falcon Flight (SpaceX)

    http://spaceflight101.com/falcon-9-jcsat-14-launch-success/ Good show!
  21. CRS-8 | First Stage Landing on Droneship

    CRS-8 | First Stage Landing on Droneship

    First successful landing-at-sea for SpaceX.
    • jackwhirl
    • Media item
    • rocket spacex
    • Comments: 0
    • Category: Entertainment
  22. CynicusRex

    SpaceX SpaceX successfully lands on droneship 8-4-16

    I'm excited like a 10 year old on Christmas. History has been made, again.
  23. D

    What is the significance of Max Q in rocket launches and disasters?

    So I was reading about the challenger disaster and came across this report: http://history.nasa.gov/rogersrep/v1ch3.htm Both the Shuttle main engines and the solid rockets operated at reduced thrust approaching and passing through the area of maximum dynamic pressure of 720 pounds per square...
  24. mfb

    SpaceX SpaceX: First stage landed Satellites in orbit

    A great launch, everything worked as expected, delivering 11 OrbComm satellites to Earth orbit (they all got deployed in the minutes after reaching orbit). But that was the routine part... although it was the first flight of an improved version of Falcon 9 1.1 ("Full thrust" version). The first...
  25. darklord27

    Getting a job in Google or SpaceX

    Hey there guys, I'm an electronics engineer who just finished the course. I'm from India and as we Indians say, we decide what to pursue after doing an engineering degree. I have got job offers from companies such as Deloitte in their consulting division. But recently I joined a startup in the...
  26. E

    SpaceX Can SpaceX Successfully Revolutionize Transportation with the Hyperloop?

    SpaceX is hosting an open competition for pod designs to test on the hyperloop 1 mile test-track they're going to build. http://www.spacex.com/hyperloop My question is this: to even begin THINK about designing a pod the way Elon envisions it, what sort of physics do I need to know? Any...
  27. Futurestar33

    What is your reason for studying physics?

    What is your reason for studying physics and what do you want to do with it. I actually got thrown into my schools physics program by accident. I began at a community college studying nanotechnology and when i transferred schools it was supposed to be a two-plus two program meaning I would get...
  28. Tsubaki

    SpaceX Is SpaceX A Viable Option in Space Exploration?

    Hey guys, I'm not sure if this would really fit into any specific area of the site. But I guess I was just wondering your opinions on SpaceX, and private spacefaring corporations in general. I'm not even going to get into Virgin Galactic or Mars One. :P In terms of technological advancements and...
  29. Doug Huffman

    SpaceX Did SpaceX's Attempt to Reland Their Rocket on a Floating Platform Fail?

    http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/01/10/us-space-spacex-idUSKBN0KJ08120150110 Sniff sniff! A neologism, reland?
  30. GiantSheeps

    SpaceX Will SpaceX Successfully Land a Rocket on a Boat?

    So SpaceX is going to try to land a rocketship on a boat... That's pretty amazing, if you ask me. Does anyone know of a TV station that will be broadcasting the event live? I know I could watch it here http://www.spacex.com/webcast/ , but it would be nice to be able to see it on the big screen...
  31. M

    Engineering Space Companies/Agencies that hire astronomers, physicists & aerospace engineers

    I'm only a freshman in college, but I am always thinking about the future. I plan to earn my Bachelor's in Physics or Astrophysics, and then continue onto graduate school. I'm at Penn State University, so I plan to stay here for all of my degrees unless a better, more valuable opportunity...
  32. M

    Which "category" of space career should i go into?

    I have always loved space and the universe. I think that as a civilization we need to dedicate more time, funds, and efforts to exploring and studying the things beyond our own Earth. A freshman in college, I need to soon settle on a major that I want to aim for (Bachelor's degree). Let me make...
  33. O

    Working in the Space industry OR Nuclear/Solar energy as a ChemE?

    Hello, I am a Chemical Engineering major and a sophomore. When I first got to college I hoped to work in Pharma, but lately I'm becoming more and more interested in working for either the Space industry (SpaceX, NASA, etc) or in the alternative energy field (mainly Nuclear, but also Solar)...
  34. P

    Study aerospace technology in univ (civil engineering)

    Hello everyone, I have a question regarding aerospace technology civil engineering. What are the chances that you get to work with companies such as NASA and SpaceX? In case it is low, what do you do otherwise with the degree you have been working on? I might want to pursue a degree in...
  35. O

    Engineering Ship's officer turning to Engineering

    Hello everybody, I've been lurking around this site for a while & finally decided to join. I would appreciate any input I can get! Situation: 1. I'm an international student in New Zealand and am about to gain a 2nd mates license for working on board ships internationally. While I have...
  36. S

    Engineering Aeronautical versus Astronautical Engineering: Job Outlook Advice

    Hello everyone. I am a recently graduated high school and community college student that will be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to major in Aerospace Engineering. I am unable to decide on which path in this major (Aeronautical or Astronautical) I should go upon. I enjoy aviation...
  37. J

    Electric Car Advances: TSLA Here to Stay?

    A lot of people have been arguing that TSLA's stock/the company in general won't take off because the demand is above the battery technology at this time. I'm a junior in college studying physics but will probably either switch to finance and do stocks because i like it more or i was double...
  38. P

    Engineering Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering?

    Hi, I'm currently a Sophomore with a major in Mechanical Engineering. However, I'm really conflicted in deciding what my major should be. I really love anything space related and was thinking about switching my major to Aerospace Engineering. I want to eventually work at places such as NASA or...
  39. Ritzycat

    What are the opportunities for people interested in building spacecraft?

    I am considering getting a BS in Aerospace engineering one day. I want to get a PhD at some point as well. What are the opportunities for people interested in building spacecraft ? Are there many job openings for NASA or commercial space agencies like SpaceX for building space-related...
  40. M

    Programs Which Science Major Should I Choose for an Aerospace Engineering Degree?

    Hi, I am currently studying Aerospace Engineering/Science (just finished my first year - 4 years to go :D) and its finally coming to a point where I have to pick my Science major. Right now for the Science part I am torn between Physics and Computer Science... I really like them both, and...
  41. D H

    SpaceX Orbital's Cygnus: SpaceX has a competitor

    Orbital Science Corporation launched its Antares rocket Wednesday, carrying its Cygnus spacecraft into space and on its way to the ISS. Capture by the robotic arm is scheduled for 7:25 AM eastern time. The approach will be visible from the ground in the northern US and southern Canada. NASA TV...
  42. E

    Electrohydrodynamic 'Skin' On Aerodynamic Bodies

    Hey ya'll! I've come to the Physics Forum when I needed help with homework, but only to observe. This is my first time posting, and I'm glad to be here! I've got a question about, electrohydrodynamics. Recently, Elon Musk put forth his idea for the Hyperloop. For those who don't know...
  43. A

    Intuitiveness of EE/ME versus SE

    "intuitiveness" of EE/ME versus SE I am trying to figure out whether I possesses the mental prowess to become an engineer of any sort. This spring I attempted to take a Java programming class at my community college and had to drop after the first week because I was so lost. I was previously an...
  44. C

    How Relevant is Master's Research to Career Choice?

    Hello forum, I am concerned with choosing the correct area of specialization within the electrical engineering masters program I will be starting this Fall; I hope to choose a research area that will prepare me the most for working in the space technology industry. My ideal career would be...
  45. Who Am I

    Engineering Engineering: Jobs with more creativity involved?

    I am feeling pretty confident about switching to engineering (from physics) now. I recently reread an interview between Elon Musk and Chris Anderson. Musk stated the following: I want a job that allows me to be inventive and creative. Doing the same thing over and over again seems pretty...
  46. P

    Which Second Language Should a Physicist Learn for International Collaboration?

    Japanese, Chinese, or Russian?? Hi, all! I went to the SCUWiP about a week ago and it was soooo exciting! I LOVE physics! Anyway, just wanted to ask your opinion about the second language thing. I have heard that SpaceX is looking for physicists who speak both English and either Japanese...
  47. R

    Are lithium-ion batteries the future of electric aviation?

    Hi all. I was wondering, are lithium-ion batteries the best type of batteries for electric vehicles? I also remember watching a video of Elon Musk (from Tesla Motors and SpaceX) claiming that lithium-ion batteries are increasing their energy density by 8 to 9 percent every year. I googled...
  48. G

    Schools Need Information Regarding Physics Graduate School

    I am currently a sophomore attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and majoring in physics. I am very studious and have maintained a 4.0 for the three semesters I have completed so far. I am hoping to graduate with a 4.0, which will be difficult but I think it is achievable. I am...
  49. B

    Engineering Non-Traditional Students and Aerospace Engineering

    A few years after I finished high school, I took a few subjects at my local community college with no real major in mind, didn't do very well and then left school for almost six years. I'm not going to make excuses for myself, I just wasn't a good student. Period. I didn't have a goal in mind. I...
  50. B

    Engineering Aerospace Engineer jobs for non-US citizens: what are the chances?

    I've been searching for this kind of discussions in the forum and I've found some interesting answers and point of views from many users. But I still have some questions that I'd like to ask. From my understanding, being hired as an engineer (Mech. Eng, Electr. Eng. and so on) or as a...
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