'We are a go': SpaceX just cleared 2 huge hurdles toward its first rocket launch of NASA astronauts into space next week

John Raoux/AP Photo

• SpaceX is preparing to launch its first people into orbit on Wednesday using a new Crew Dragon spaceship.
• NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley will pilot the commercial mission, called Demo-2.
• But the rocket company, founded by Elon Musk in 2002, first needed to test-fire its rocket and get permission from NASA and even other countries before attempting the launch.
• On Friday, SpaceX checked off both boxes, leaving one final pre-launch review on Monday before the mission can leave Earth. 
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SpaceX, the rocket company founded by Elon Musk in 2002, is steamrolling toward its first-ever rocket launch of people into orbit.

The NASA-funded commercial mission is called Demo-2 and will fly two passengers: seasoned NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley.

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