SpaceX Set to Launch Second Mission to Space Station on Friday

SpaceX is set to launch on Friday its second official cargo supply mission to the International Space Station.

Codenamed CRS-2, the mission will use the company’s Falcon 9 Rocket and Dragon capsule.

Weather forecasts are 90% favorable for the launch.

Under NASA's Commercial Resupply Services contract, which SpaceX received in December 2008, the company is guaranteed a minimum of 12 resupply missions in the coming years.

The first launch, on October 8, 2012, was a success, with the Dragon capsule remaining on the station until October 28 when it disengaged and returned home, safely splashing down in the Pacific Ocean. That mission marked the first time a privately owned rocket brought supplies to the ISS.

SpaceX was founded by billionaire Elon Musk, who also founded electric car company Tesla Motors, PayPal and solar energy company SolarCity Corp.

With the successes of these companies, speculation has been circulating about an IPO at SpaceX as well. Moreover, Musk has made it known that he has intentions to send missions to Mars.

The CRS-2 launch is scheduled for 10:10 a.m. ET on Friday, March 1. The launch will be accessible to viewers online through SpaceX's webcast.