SpaceX Begins Testing on New Rocket Engine
SpaceX has successfully tested their new engine, the Merlin 1D. SpaceX claims that the booster is the most efficient one ever built and during testing the engine managed 147,000 pounds of thrust in a stationary position.
The engine demonstrated the capability of lifting the Falcon 9 rocket but more testing will have to be done on Merlin 1D to make sure of its safety. If all continues to go to plan SpaceX may use the Merlin 1D on a Falcon 9 rocket with the Dragon in tow up in to space sometime in 2013.
SpaceX recorded the test conducted on the Merlin 1D and here it is:
