Space X and NASA are moments away from making history. The Dragon capsule is making its final approach toward docking with the International Space Station, marking a new chapter both for NASA and privatized space exploration. It's currently projected to dock at 10:02am EDT. You can watch it all right here:
For those tuning in a little late to the story, SpaceX is the first commercial company in to attempt to send a spacecraft to the station. Ever. Only the governments of four very large countries – the United States, Russia, Japan and the European Space Agency – have ever accomplished this. Since the shuttle program's retirement, NASA has relied on primarily on Russian crafts (like the Soyuz capsules) for transporting goods (not to mention astronauts) to and from the ISS. If today goes well, that could all change.
Just to be clear, this Dragon capsule is unmanned. The design of this one would primarily be used for resupply missions, but that's a very critical element of what NASA does. Them astronauts gotta eat.
Currently the capsule is within 30 meters of the ISS and is closing in. Here's a picture tweeted by Space X when it was at 70 meters, taken from the ISS.
We'll keep updating as it gets closer.
9:44am The capsule's within 10 meters now, here's a gorgeous picture of the approach. (via Space X)
9:54amIt's half a meter away! Oh man, oh man, just grab it already!
9:56am Capture complete! "Houston station we've got us a dragon by the tail." Astronaut Don Pettit (one of our faves) has successfully used the ISS' robotic arm (the Canadarm2) to capture the Dragon capsule.
Here you can see the Dragon capsule at the end of the ISS's long robotic arm.
10:10am Don Pettit just got clearance to begin installation procedures of the Dragon X into the ISS's Harmony node. From here on out, it should be a relatively smooth process. They are currently inspecting the Dragon capsule for damage using high powered binoculars as well as remote cameras. So far it's looking good for installation. NASA is ordering an attitude adjustment maneuver for the ISS before installation can be completed, but fingers crossed, it should be smooth sailing from here.
Huge congratulations to Space X, NASA, and the space industry as a whole. It's truly a monumental day.
10:41am They've been given the all clear to begin the installation process. In the meantime, look at this pretty picture. You'll be like, "DANG that's cool!" [via Space X]
11:03am The station's Canadarm2 has moved the Dragon near the Harmony node to its "preinstall position". Here you can see a close up of the Dragon's hatch, looking all 2001: a Space Odyssey.
11:54am Entering the final stage of capture. "Smooshing," I think it's called.
12:08am Done deal! The Dragon spacecraft is now firmly attached to its berthing port on the Harmony module. Huge congratulations again. Great day for all concerned.