SpaceX Successfully Launches Third Batch of Starlink Satellites
SpaceX continues to make headlines with its rapid and frequent launches, as it successfully launched its third batch of Starlink satellites in just over four days. The Falcon 9 rocket blasted off from Cape Canaveral at 2:47 a.m. EST on Wednesday morning, after experiencing delays twice. Originally planned for Tuesday night, the launch was postponed but eventually took place on Wednesday.
This mission, named Starlink 6-29, added 23 more satellites to the ever-growing Starlink constellation. It follows the launch of 23 Starlink satellites on Saturday morning, and another 22 from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Monday. The Falcon 9 rocket was lifted upright at Space Launch Complex 40 later than usual, shortly before 10 p.m. EST. This launch marked the ninth fastest turnaround attempt for the launch facility, with the mission prior to it taking place just four days earlier.
After ignition, the Falcon 9 rocket embarked on a south-easterly trajectory, targeting an orbit inclined at 43 degrees to the Equator. The first stage of the rocket separated from the second stage and made a successful landing on the drone ship ‘A Shortfall of Gravitas’ in the Atlantic Ocean. Meanwhile, the second stage continued to fire for approximately six minutes to reach a parking orbit. After around 45 minutes of coasting, the second-stage engine re-ignited for a two-second burn to refine the orbit.
SpaceX confirmed the successful deployment of the 23 V2 Mini Starlink satellites through a social media post. This launch marked SpaceX’s 87th orbital launch of the year and the 276th flight of a Falcon 9 rocket to date, further cementing the company’s position as a leader in the commercial space industry.
With each launch, SpaceX brings us closer to global internet coverage through its Starlink satellite constellation. As the company continues to break its own records for launching and landing rockets, the possibilities for space exploration and connectivity seem increasingly limitless.
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