Brevard Space Coast Launches Set to Continue with SpaceX Starlink Mission
Cape Canaveral Space Force Station is gearing up for yet another rocket launch as SpaceX prepares for its next Starlink internet-beaming satellite mission. The launch window for this highly anticipated event is set to open on Saturday night, according to navigational warnings. The 45th Weather Squadron from the Space Force has predicted favorable weather conditions for the liftoff, with an 80% chance of success.
Although SpaceX has not officially confirmed the mission, both the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and the Federal Aviation Administration have issued advisories indicating a Saturday launch window from 7:13 to 11:44 p.m. EDT. If successful, this will mark the 59th orbital launch from Cape Canaveral this year, breaking the previous annual record of 57 set in 2022.
Notably, this launch attempt comes just days after the Department of Defense’s plan to launch a hypersonic missile from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station was canceled. The Falcon 9’s first stage booster is expected to land aboard a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 8½ minutes after liftoff. However, the 45th Weather Squadron has raised concerns about the recovery of the booster due to the impact of Post-Tropical Cyclone Tammy, which is generating rough seas in the recovery zone.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, excitement is building for the Starlink 6-25 mission as it aims to continue the deployment of SpaceX’s satellite internet constellation. Starlink is designed to provide high-speed internet access to underserved areas around the world. The deployment of this latest batch of satellites will bring the total number of Starlink satellites launched to 150, surpassing last year’s record of 57 launches.
For those interested in witnessing the launch, live coverage begins 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space. Updates on the launch schedule can be found at floridatoday.com/launchschedule.