SpaceX Falcon 9 Being Prepped For Prelaunch Tests

SpaceX is busy preparing for the first Falcon 9 rocket launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and the company has released a series of photos that show the steps taken to integrate and raise the rocket at Launch Complex 40.

The 18-story rocket includes a first stage with nine Merlin engines, a second stage with a Merlin vacuum engine and a Dragon spacecraft qualification unit.

Check out this SpaceX time-lapsed video that shows the Falcon 9 Going Vertical.

The rocket has been connected to mobile transporter support systems, including lines for RP-1 fuel, liquid oxygen, gaseous helium and nitrogen, as will as electrical and data connections.

The lines attach to the rocket at three umbilical connectors -- two at the base of the first stage and one at the top of an interstage that links the first and second stages. They remain connected until liftoff.

SpaceX is preparing for a propellant-loading test this week and a March 4 static test-firing. Data from the test-firing will be reviewed in advance of a launch. The launch officially is on the Eastern Range schedule for March 22.

Photo Credits: SpaceX and Chris Thompson of SpaceX.