SpaceX will change the Falcon 9 rocket based on data from a successful return to the first stage.

(Photo: SpaceX)

SpaceX Ilona Mask is planning to make some changes to the original design of the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. These changes will be made on the basis of data from testing the first stage, which returned to Earth in December . This was reported by the company's president Gwyn Shotwell. Unfortunately, Shotwell did not report any specific changes, but said that after adding all the changes, the rocket would become even stronger and more stable.

Let me remind you that in December, SpaceX successfully landed the first stage of its Falcon 9 launch vehicle on the ground, after which the company's specialists began to study the returning part of the rocket. In January, the company tested the treadmotors to check whether they work correctly after the flight into space and back. Musk said that, in general, everything is in order, but one of the engines showed some inconstancy of traction. Perhaps the reason for this - damage to any debris.

The main task that SpaceX faces when creating a returnable first stage is to reduce the launch cost of the rocket, and therefore, reduce the cost of sending 1 kg of payload to space. But numerous first-stage checks and the restoration of damaged parts "eat up" most of the money saved. Therefore, the company decided to change the rocket, based on data obtained during past launches. According to the company, SpaceX is hoping to re-launch the restored Falcon 9 first stage into space this year.
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SpaceX has other significant goals for 2016. In particular, the company will carry out an experimental flight of Dragon Crew Capsule with an imitation of possible problems - for example, a missile launch failure. Dragon 8 has SuperDraco engines mounted in the capsule, so that if there are problems with the rocket, the capsule can separate from the rocket and leave the dangerous place.

SpaceX also plans this year to conduct the first flight test of the Falcon Heavy rocket - this is a more dimensional version of the Falcon 9 with two additional boosters located on the sides of the hull. Falcon Heavy can also be reused, although this is a much more difficult task than with the Falcon 9.