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One more step for commercial space flight

Monday, June 7th, 2010

The SpaceX Dragon nine launch signals a new era in space exploration as it heralds an opening in access to low earth orbit for non-government launch vehicles. The launch will show whether these commercial services are really viable. The move towards commercial space flight is a big step for The United States as it moves away from NASA being the main launch facility. Also don’t miss what’s in the night sky on this week’s Sky Talk.

(Image credit: www.spacex.com)

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Dr. Derrick H. Pitts

Senior Scientist, Chief Astronomer, Franklin Institute Science Museum

Sky Talk is a weekly discussion of what's new and interesting in astronomy with Dr. Derrick Pitts and WHYY FM's Dave Heller every Monday evening during NewsWorks Tonight at 6 pm. Learn more about Dr. Derrick Pitts »

Extended Interview

Derrick Pitts speaks with NASA Technical Manager Rob Landis about what it's like behind the scenes and what's next for the Space Program.

Atlantis Launch Extra

Derrick Pitts takes a closer look at the stainless-steel star made of the original Franklin Institute Fels Planetarium dome, which hitched a ride with the last space shuttle mission.

Watch now »

Astronomy Clubs

Check out these local area astronomy clubs for a star party near you: