SpaceX Crew Dragon completes static test fire [Video]

The rocket is expected to be ready for its first demonstration flight -- sans astronauts -- by nextmonth.

SpaceX is celebrating the first static test fire of its new Crew Dragon, checking off another box of necessary trials before the rocket is ready to take astronauts to the International Space Station.

Highlighting the milestone on Twitter, CEO Elon Musk says the company is targeting its first demonstration flight from the historic Launch Complex 39A in February. The demo launch will not have a crew on board, instead providing further systems validation in preparation for its official mission.

The February launch will send the spacecraft to the ISS where it will dock for a few days, then make a parachute landing in the Atlantic Ocean.

SpaceX's contract for a crewed launch vehicle is worth more than $2.5 billion, elevating the relative newcomer's rivalry with established players such as Boeing.

Static fire test complete--targeting February launch from historic Launch Complex 39A for Crew Dragon's first demonstration flight! pic.twitter.com/sJF24U3UOM

-- SpaceX (@SpaceX) January 25, 2019