SpaceX has revolutionised the recent surge into space with its cutting-edge reusable rocket tech. And Elon Musk’s ambitions even extend from there. Because SpaceX will tomorrow reattempt launching a constellation of satellites into low-orbit, as part of its project to beam cheap broadband internet around the world.
SpaceX will again attempt to send the first 60 satellites in the Starlink mega-constellation into orbit.
After successive delays, SpaceX announced Monday the new launch window will open tomorrow, Wednesday May 23.
Starlink is SpaceX’s satellite broadband project that will eventually see a total of 12,000 satellites orbiting the Earth to deliver internet to every corner of the globe.
The first 60 test satellites are currently crammed into the payload pay of a Falcon 9, waiting for departure.
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The launch window opens on May 23 at 7.30pm PT (3.30am BST on May 24) and closes at midnight PT.
And as with last week, a backup launch window will open 24 hours later, on May 24 at 7.30pm PT, should something go awry during the first launch window.
If you want to follow along live, SpaceX are streaming a webcast of the launch which can be watched HERE.
The broadcast will begin 15 minutes before liftoff.
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The first 60 satellites will be taken to an altitude approximately 270 miles (440 km) over Earth.
And if goes to plan, they will then gently propel themselves out to an orbit of about 340 miles (550 km).
This will be the third time this particularSpaceX Falcon 9 booster has ascended to space.
The two previous Falcon 9 flights took place in September 2018 and January 2019.
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Elon Musk has attempted to manage expectations of this historic satellites deployment.
He has been quoted as saying “much will likely go wrong” and these first 60 satellites are a test, providing a demonstration of Starlink’s future capabilities.
Another six launches will be required before even “minor” internet coverage will be achieved.
SpaceX launched a pair of prototype satellites for the service last year, but these are the first of the “production design” version of Starlink’s satellites.