No, SpaceX themselves have done it several times, and I'm about 90% sure there's prior precedent as well. It's a theoretical capability of any liquid-fueled roc

No, SpaceX themselves have done it several times, and I'm about 90% sure there's prior precedent as well. It's a theoretical capability of any liquid-fueled rocket, assuming an adequate hold-down system. Edit: Looks like Ariane 5 has similar systems on its main engine, but it also uses solid rocket boosters, which can't be shut down once started. http://www.space.com/11264-rocket-launch-aborts-engine-malfunction.html http://www.space.com/11264-rocket-launch-aborts-engine-malfu...