SpaceX Plans Next Launch to International Space Station for Mar. 1, NASA Invites Social Media Users

Private space exploration company SpaceX is planning its next payload delivery via rocket to the International Space Station on Mar. 1.

"he unmanned Dragon capsule, built by California-based firm SpaceX, will launch from Florida's Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 10:10 a.m. EST (1510 GMT) on March 1 and arrive at the orbiting lab a day later," writes Space.com.

"Dragon will carry about 1,200 pounds (544 kilograms) of supplies and scientific experiments to the station, NASA officials said. It will return to Earth on March 25, splashing down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Baja California with about 2,300 pounds (1,043 kg) of experiment samples and equipment onboard."

SpaceX successfully delivered its first payload to the ISS in October of last year, so there's no doubt that this run can succeed, but there's always trepidation. SpaceX has a contract with NASA to make 12 flights to resupply the space station.

In an effort to save money, NASA has begun hiring private companies, particularly after the retirement of the space shuttle program.

NASA is currently accepting applications from social media users to attend the Mar. 1 launch, and he deadline to apply in this Friday for American applicants.

"A maximum of 50 social media users will be selected to attend the event and will be given the same access as news media in an effort to align the experience of social media representatives with those of traditional media," says the NASA website."

"NASA Social media accreditation for the SpaceX launch opens at noon EST Thursday, Feb. 14. International social media users without U.S. citizenship must apply for credentials by 5:00 p.m. EST Friday, Feb. 15, to qualify. For U.S. social media, the deadline to apply is 5:00 p.m. EST Friday, Feb. 22."