SpaceX launching recycled rocket, supply capsule for NASA

 On Tuesday, SpaceX plans to launch its first recycled rocket for NASA. The unmanned Falcon 9 - last used in June - will carry up a Dragon capsule that's also flown on a previous space station supply run.

NASA's International Space Station manager, Kirk Shireman, said the risk of launching a recycled rocket is about the same as for a brand new one. He expects to be just as anxious as he always is at every launch.

"It's still a dangerous business," he told reporters Monday.



Although NASA's best rocket experts conducted an extensive review of the recycled and meticulously inspected booster, there is never "zero risk," he pointed out.

The private SpaceX has launched recycled rockets three times before, on commercial satellite deliveries. And back in June, SpaceX launched a previously flown Dragon to the space station. This latest Dragon to fly - loaded with nearly 5,000 pounds of food, gear and experiments, and likely some Christmas presents - first flew in 2015.