SpaceX is set to launch another batch of its Starlink satellites into space today, and the entire event will be livestreamed for free. The launch is scheduled for 9:56 a.m. EDT (1356 GMT) and will be carried out by a Falcon 9 rocket. Viewers can watch the livestream on Space.com.
The Falcon 9 rocket will take off from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Approximately eight minutes after liftoff, the first stage of the rocket will descend onto a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean called A Shortfall of Gravitas. The Starlink satellites will be deployed about 65 minutes after launch.
This launch will utilize a first stage that has already been used in several previous missions, including a resupply mission to the International Space Station and three other Starlink missions. SpaceX has sent over 4,500 Starlink satellites to space so far, with around 4,200 of them currently operational.
SpaceX has plans to expand its Starlink megaconstellation even further. The company has been granted permission to launch 12,000 broadband satellites and has applied for approval to send an additional 30,000 satellites into space.
Backup launch opportunities are also available on Saturday, June 24, at 9:05 a.m. EDT (1305 GMT) and 10:46 a.m. EDT (14:46 GMT), according to SpaceX officials.
The livestream of the launch can be watched on Space.com, and viewers can also join the Space Forums to discuss the latest missions and other space-related topics. For any news tips, corrections, or comments, the community can reach out to Space.com at [email protected].
Elizabeth Howell, a staff writer in the spaceflight channel since 2022, will be covering the launch. She has been a contributing writer for Space.com for 10 years and has extensive experience in reporting on space-related topics. Howell holds a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Space Studies and has a background in journalism and history.
SpaceX’s Starlink satellite launches have garnered significant attention due to their potential to provide global broadband coverage. As the company continues to expand its satellite network, it aims to revolutionize internet connectivity worldwide.
What is the specific rocket being utilized by SpaceX for this mission to deploy the Starlink satellites into orbit
Off at 9:56 a.m. EDT (1356 GMT) today as SpaceX prepares to send yet another group of Starlink satellites into orbit. The launch will be accessible to everyone through a free livestream on Space.com. This mission will employ the Falcon 9 rocket to deliver the satellites.
“SpaceX continues to push boundaries with yet another groundbreaking launch of Starlink satellites, revolutionizing global connectivity. A testament to their unmatched pioneering spirit and commitment to progress in the realm of space exploration.”