SpaceX Launches Its First Commercial Satellite Into Orbit

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By Amanda Wills2013-12-03 16:50:16 -0600

Third time's a charm for Elon Musk.

After two failed attempts last week, SpaceX on Tuesday successfully launched an unmanned Falcon 9 rocket, carrying its first commercial satellite into space.

The launch is monumental for SpaceX because it proves the private company can deliver satellites into orbit on a budget. Now, CEO Musk and his team have an entry ticket to the $190 billion commercial satellite industry.

Singapore-based satellite communications provider SES contracted SpaceX to launch the $100 million SES-8 satellite, which will provide television, cable and broadband to rapidly growing markets in South Asia and Asia Pacific regions.

Images: SpaceX

Topics: elon musk, space, SpaceX, U.S., US & World