X

SpaceX Dragon V2 spacecraft unveiled by Elon Musk (pictures)

Elon Musk has just unveiled the second-generation Dragon space capsule, the V2. It seats seven comfortably and could be flying soon.

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Tim Stevens
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SpaceX Dragon V2

The Dragon V1, SpaceX's first spacecraft.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

Elon Musk took the stage to unveil the V2.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

Here it is, the Dragon v2 spacecraft.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

The V2 uses many of the same engines that the first Dragon used, plus a series of SuperDraco engines that enable it to land like a helicopter -- a rocket-powered helicopter.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

The door, with a chrome handle, no less.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

SpaceX has been a bit of a passion for Mr. Musk, who spoke excitedly about the potential for commercial space flight.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

The Dragon 2 seats seven lucky space travelers.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

A ladder was rolled out, and Mr. Musk took a seat inside.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

A series of LCDs inside show the pilot and crew all the needed information about the capsule.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

One of the Draco engines on display.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

The futuristic control panel inside the V2.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

This is what one of the seats looks like, all carbon fiber to save weight.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

While the displays are touchscreens, physical buttons are provided for crucial tasks.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

Yes, there's a joystick, too.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

Seats seven in spartan luxury.

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SpaceX Dragon V2

Accomodations are somewhat lacking, but we imagine the view will more than make up for that.

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