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SpaceX to Launch 23 More Starlink Internet Satellites
SpaceX is preparing to launch an additional 23 Starlink internet satellites into orbit this evening, marking another milestone for the company’s innovative satellite network. The spacecraft are set to launch atop a Falcon 9 rocket from Florida’s Cape Canaveral Space Force Station within a four-hour window that opens at 5:50 p.m. EDT (2150 GMT).
The launch will be broadcast live on SpaceX’s official X account, commencing approximately five minutes prior to the opening of the launch window. Should the mission proceed as planned, the Falcon 9’s first stage is expected to make a controlled descent back to Earth for a vertical landing about 8.5 minutes after liftoff, touching down on the droneship Just Read the Instructions, situated in the Atlantic Ocean.
This upcoming launch marks the 13th mission for the Falcon 9 booster, with half of its previous 12 flights dedicated to Starlink missions. The upper stage of the rocket will deploy the 23 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) approximately 65 minutes after liftoff, enhancing global connectivity and expanding the Starlink constellation.
SpaceX: A Weekend of Success
Leading into this launch, SpaceX has been experiencing a highly productive weekend, further solidifying its position as a key player in the space industry. On Saturday, the company successfully launched two Galileo navigation satellites for Europe, marking the 20th flight for the Falcon 9’s first stage and setting a reusable rocket record for SpaceX.
Additionally, SpaceX’s 30th Dragon cargo mission to the International Space Station for NASA will conclude today, as the Dragon capsule departs the orbiting lab to bring back scientific samples and experiments. The undocking process is scheduled for around 1:05 p.m. EDT (1705 GMT) and will be available for live viewing on Space.com, courtesy of NASA.
As SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of space exploration, these consecutive successes highlight the company’s commitment to innovation, reliability, and sustainability in the aerospace sector. Stay tuned for more updates on SpaceX’s future endeavors and groundbreaking missions.
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