SpaceX experienced a setback in its Starlink launch plans as it scrubbed an overnight launch attempt from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The launch, which would have set a company record for launches from the same pad, was scheduled to take place at 12:40 a.m. on Friday. However, mission control called for a hold just 40 seconds before liftoff.
The reason for the scrub was not immediately known, but SpaceX has a backup opportunity on Saturday at 12:15 a.m. The weather forecast for the backup window predicts an 85% chance of favorable launch conditions.
If the launch is successful, it would still be a record-breaking achievement for SpaceX. Despite the one-day delay, it would be the quickest turnaround for Space Launch Complex 40, coming just five days and 17 minutes after the previous launch. The previous record of five days, three hours, and 38 minutes was set in February.
This launch would also mark the 35th launch from the Space Coast in 2023, putting it on track to break records for the pads at Canaveral and neighboring Kennedy Space Center. In fact, the two facilities had a total of 57 liftoffs in 2022, and they are on pace for 64 launches in 2023.
SpaceX has been actively working on both the East and West Coasts, with a total of 47 orbital launches so far among its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets. Additionally, the company has been focused on its Starlink constellation, which is set to surpass 4,800 satellites launched over 94 missions since its first operational deployment in 2019.
With this launch, SpaceX will have successfully flown the Falcon 9 rocket 238 times since 2010, with only one in-flight failure in 2015. The company has also completed six Falcon Heavy launches since 2018, with a third one scheduled for late July. Overall, SpaceX has achieved 246 successful orbital missions, including its initial two Falcon 1 launches in 2008 and 2009.
SpaceX’s booster program has also seen significant success, with 207 recoveries among Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets, allowing for 180 reflights.
Despite the setback, SpaceX remains committed to its ambitious goals. CEO Elon Musk had previously stated that the company could reach 100 launches this year, with the majority coming from Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center.
The majority of these launches are in support of the growing Starlink constellation, which aims to provide global internet coverage. The Federal Communications Commission has increased SpaceX’s license to allow for up to 7,500 satellites.
As SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and satellite deployment, the company’s achievements are setting new records and paving the way for future advancements in the industry.
Richard Tribou, Senior Content Editor for Audience and Space and Cruise reporter for the Orlando Sentinel, contributed to this article.
What setbacks and challenges did SpaceX face in their attempt to surpass the previous record of 39 launches in a year?
N track to surpass the previous record of 39 launches in a year, set in 2021.
The Starlink mission aims to deploy a batch of 60 internet-beaming satellites into orbit. These satellites are part of SpaceX’s ambitious plan to create a global broadband network that can provide high-speed internet coverage to even the most remote areas of the world.
The setback in the launch plans highlights the complexities and challenges of spaceflight. Even minor technical issues or unfavorable weather conditions can result in mission delays or scrubs. However, SpaceX has proven its ability to adapt and overcome challenges, with a track record of successful launches and advancements in rocket reusability.
As SpaceX continues its rapid launch cadence, the company is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the space industry. The ability to reuse Falcon 9 boosters significantly reduces the cost of space missions and paves the way for more frequent and affordable access to space.
With the backup launch window on Saturday, SpaceX will have another opportunity to achieve its record-breaking launch from the same pad. As the weather forecast looks promising, all eyes will be on Cape Canaveral to see if SpaceX can overcome the setback and continue its impressive streak of successful missions.
“Disappointing news for SpaceX as the Starlink launch attempt gets scrubbed. However, the anticipation for the record-breaking launch is still high. Looking forward to witnessing yet another groundbreaking achievement by SpaceX!”