SpaceX is gearing up for another exciting mission, as it plans to launch its next Starlink satellite constellation from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The launch is scheduled to take place at nighttime, with the launch window set from 11 p.m. on Tuesday to 3:31 a.m. EDT on Wednesday.
Although SpaceX has yet to officially confirm the launch window, both the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and the Federal Aviation Administration have issued advisories indicating these times. This mission, known as Starlink 6-27, will be followed by NASA’s SpaceX commercial resupply mission to the International Space Station.
If the weather cooperates, there is a greater than 95% chance of favorable launch conditions, according to the 45th Weather Squadron. The forecast for the launch includes a few cumulus clouds at an elevation of 3,000 to 5,000 feet, with temperatures set at 70 degrees and northeast breezes of 5 to 10 mph.
In case of any delays, Wednesday has been designated as the backup launch day. The primary launch weather concern is a slight risk of a Cumulus Cloud Rule violation, which could impact the scheduled liftoff.
This launch will mark the 61st orbital launch of the year from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center. SpaceX will utilize its reliable Falcon 9 rocket at Launch Complex 40, and the trajectory for this mission is set to be southeast.
Excitingly, there will be no local sonic boom during the launch. The booster landing is expected to take place on a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean, adding another impressive feat to SpaceX’s list of successful recoveries.
To keep space enthusiasts and the public engaged, live coverage of the launch will begin 90 minutes before liftoff on floridatoday.com/space. Additionally, for the latest schedule updates, interested individuals can visit floridatoday.com/launchschedule.
As SpaceX prepares for its nighttime launch, the anticipation is building, and all eyes will be on the sky as the next Starlink mission takes flight.
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