Elon Musk has just unveiled the second-generation Dragon space capsule, the V2. It seats seven comfortably and could be flying soon.
The Dragon V1, SpaceX's first spacecraft.
Elon Musk took the stage to unveil the V2.
Here it is, the Dragon v2 spacecraft.
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.
The door, with a chrome handle, no less.
SpaceX has been a bit of a passion for Mr. Musk, who spoke excitedly about the potential for commercial space flight.
The Dragon 2 seats seven lucky space travelers.
A ladder was rolled out, and Mr. Musk took a seat inside.
A series of LCDs inside show the pilot and crew all the needed information about the capsule.
One of the Draco engines on display.
The futuristic control panel inside the V2.
This is what one of the seats looks like, all carbon fiber to save weight.
While the displays are touchscreens, physical buttons are provided for crucial tasks.
Yes, there's a joystick, too.
Seats seven in spartan luxury.
Accomodations are somewhat lacking, but we imagine the view will more than make up for that.