Dragon readies to fly atop a Falcon-9 rocket to become the first commercial spacecraft to dock with the International Space Station. If successful, the mission will mark a huge turning point for America's space program, making spaceflight no longer something only governments can do. I covered the historic launch with the 920th Rescue Wing from Patrick Air Force Base, flying with them in a HH60G Pave Hawk helicopter, call sign Jolly 1, while they cleared the range around the launch area of unwanted guests. Will add more images in the coming days.

For the 920th Rescue Wing / Patrick Air Force Base, ARES Institute ( http://www.ARESInstitute.org), and AmericaSpace ( http://www.AmericaSpace.com)

All photos @ 2012 Mike Killian and may not be used in any way without permission.