SpaceX successfully launches new Falcon 9 rocket

Reuters reported that on Sunday, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched in California. This launch was to test necessary upgrades for a future commercial launch.

This 22-floor-tall rocket was manufactured by the Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX). It was launched through leasing the launch pad at the Vandenberg Air Force Base. Falcon 9 carried CASSIOPE, a scientific and communications satellite built by Canada's MDA company, into space.

The upgraded Falcon 9 v1.1 has 60% more power than its predecessor, features extended range capabilities, new avionics, new software and other functions, which are aimed at enhancing boost capability and simplifying operations for commercial use.