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SpaceX Launching 23 Starlink Satellites to Orbit
SpaceX is preparing for another milestone today as it readies to launch 23 of its Starlink broadband satellites into orbit. The Falcon 9 rocket carrying these satellites is set to lift off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida during an hourlong window that opens at 5:12 a.m. EDT (0912 GMT).
The launch will be broadcasted via SpaceX’s official channel beginning approximately five minutes before liftoff. If all goes according to plan, the Falcon 9’s first stage is expected to return to Earth safely. The booster will make a vertical landing on the SpaceX droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas stationed in the Atlantic Ocean, marking its 14th successful launch and landing.
Following liftoff, the Falcon 9’s upper stage will propel the 23 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit, deploying them approximately 65 minutes after launch. This mission will mark the 33rd orbital launch for SpaceX in 2024, with a significant portion dedicated to expanding the Starlink megaconstellation.
Doubleheader for Starlink Satellites
In a strategic move, SpaceX plans to conduct a Starlink doubleheader with another launch of 21 satellites scheduled for later tonight. This second launch will take place from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California during a four-hour window opening at 10:31 p.m. EDT (0231 GMT on April 6).
SpaceX continues to make significant strides in space exploration, cementing its position as a leader in satellite deployment and orbital missions. Stay tuned for more updates on rocket launches and key space-related events.
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