NASA launches Space Exploration Technologies 9 rocket next year . With shuttle program about to end , NASA looking to private companies to fill gap . The administration would like to see whether private companies can do it cheaper and more efficiently , as the shuttle program is about to fly into retirement . Florida will rely on Russians to get to and from the international space station for now . Founder hopes SpaceX will be ready to begin flying cargo to space station next year .
NASA launches Space Exploration Technologies 9 rocket next year . With shuttle program about to end , NASA looking to private companies to fill gap . Florida will rely on Russians to get to and from the international space station for now . Founder hopes SpaceX will be ready to begin flying cargo to space station next year .