So, on the 30th, the SpaceX Dragon launches for a resupply mission to the ISS.

I have mixed feelings - all about the mission, not the craft. (I hate the ISS - it is a worthless moneypit, they stripped all the freakin' first generation research out of its modules before launch. ) The only experiments that they have run were all done on Skylab, back in the '70s.

The craft on the other hand... looks much more efficient than the shuttle, does not rely on new technologies like the now cancelled space plane, and is likely fairly efficient. (The shuttle wast the least efficient, most expensive space vehicle that we ever launched.)

Anyone else excited?

The Auld Grump

It is a return to the old heavy lifters. Solid, simple designs. The only real issue with them is the amount of space debris they can build up. I do like the design upgrades though

Of course if SpaceX achieves the self returning launch stages they envision We will half way to the original vision of the shuttle, Sci-Fi style near orbit earth to space landers.

I used to be pro space program, but when I look at things like we will be running out/low of Helium by 2035 I can think of other things to spend money on.

We'll be all right - as soon as we get Warm Fusion working we'll have more Helium (and energy) than we'll know what to do with.

"When?" you ask. "When?"
" 'In time!' - Is that a good enough answer for you?"

Damn, but I hate it that we are becoming dependent of future breakthroughs to maintain our current mode of living. The risks associated with that are getting a tad too high for my liking.

As for the SpaceX Dragon: At least someone is going to keep maintaining the ISS. You never know, something really useful just might come out of it.