A new SpaceX Starlink launch will take place before August ends. This new mission of the independent aerospace company will send 46 satellites, allowing its artificial constellation to expand further.
As of press time, SpaceX already has more than 3,000 cube satellites in orbit. This 2022, the space agency was able to complete 24 Starlink launches as it puts more effort into completing its internet satellite constellation.
Previously, SpaceX's mega constellation was permitted to launch around 12,000 Starlink satellites. This was followed up by another international regulator approval application, allowing it to increase its limit to 30,000 cubesats.
SpaceX Starlink August 2022 Launch
According to Space.Com's latest report, the upcoming Starlink launch will be big for SpaceX since it will mark the seventh spaceflight of Falcon 9 first stage.
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The aerospace company confirmed that the launch would lift off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California this coming Aug. 31 (Wednesday).
It will carry a total of 46 Starlink satellites into orbit. For those interested in watching the Starlink launch, the best thing you can do is visit SpaceX's official website.
The aerospace company will provide a live stream for the mission within five minutes. On the other hand, here are the things that will happen during the 38-minute preparation of SpaceX's Starlink launch:
- 00:38:00 - SpaceX Launch Director gives the go-signal for propellant load
- 00:35:00 - RP-1 (rocket grade kerosene) loading begins
- 00:35:00 - 1st stage LOX (liquid oxygen) loading begins
- 00:16:00 - 2nd stage LOX loading begins
- 00:07:00 - Falcon 9 begins engine chill prior to launch
- 00:01:00 - Command flight computer to begin final pre-launch checks
- 00:01:00 - Propellant tank pressurization to flight pressure begins
- 00:00:45 - SpaceX Launch Director verifies go for launch
- 00:00:03 - Engine controller commands engine ignition sequence to start
- 00:00:00 - Falcon 9 liftoff
Other Efforts of SpaceX Starlink
Aside from sending the advanced Starlink internet cubesats, SpaceX is also collaborating with other companies to enhance its broadband service further.
Previously, the space agency announced its new partnership with T-Mobile in the new project called "Coverage Above and Beyond."
This new program is expected to bring direct connectivity to smartphones using the Starlink internet service.
In other stories, SpaceX's Falcon boosters are expected to be used by U.S. Space Force spy satellites.
On the other hand, the SpaceX Cargo Dragon mission brought back components of a faulty spacesuit that previously delayed an ISS spacewalk.
For more news updates about SpaceX and Starlink, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.
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Written by: Griffin Davis