SpaceX has announced the rescheduling of the launch of 22 Starlink internet satellites to Friday evening, after the initial launch was postponed. The Falcon 9 rocket is set to lift off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 10:30 p.m. EDT.
Originally planned for Thursday, the launch was delayed to ensure the vehicle was properly fueled before liftoff. The event will mark the 30th Falcon 9 flight of 2024 and the 20th dedicated to the Starlink project.
Viewers can tune in to watch the launch live on SpaceX’s online account, where they will witness the Falcon 9’s first stage attempt to land vertically on a drone ship in the Pacific Ocean. This particular booster has been used for 15 launches so far.
Once in orbit, the 22 Starlink satellites will be deployed into low Earth orbit approximately 62 minutes after liftoff. SpaceX has reportedly launched more than 6,000 Starlink satellites, with over 5,000 currently operational.
The company has approval to deploy an additional 12,000 Starlink satellites and has applied for permission to launch an extra 30,000. The ambitious project aims to provide global internet coverage, especially in underserved and remote areas.
Stay tuned for more updates on the SpaceX Starlink mission as the company continues to revolutionize the satellite internet industry.
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