In a historic event scheduled for this evening, SpaceX is poised to launch the Indonesian communications satellite SATRIA-1 aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Space.com reports.
How, Where, When to Watch?
The launch, which offers the opportunity for a rocket landing at sea, will be broadcast live and can be watched directly via SpaceX's YouTube live coverage.
The 178-minute launch window is set to open at 6:04 p.m. EDT (2204 GMT), and coverage is expected to commence approximately 15 minutes before liftoff.
Indonesia's SATRIA-1 Sattelite
The SATRIA-1 satellite, operated by the Indonesian government in partnership with the Indonesian company PSN, will be transported to geosynchronous transfer orbit by Falcon 9's upper stage.
Deployment of the satellite is expected to occur approximately 37 minutes after liftoff.
Bringing Free Internet Access to Indonesians
SATRIA-1, an acronym for "Satellite of the Republic of Indonesia," has been designed with a noble purpose.
With an estimated cost of $550 million, the spacecraft aims to enhance connectivity and provide free internet access to 150,000 public facilities in Indonesia.
These facilities include schools, regional government offices, and health centers, all of which will benefit from the improved communication capabilities of SATRIA-1.
According to The Jakarta Post, the satellite is expected to possess a throughput capacity of 150 billion bits per second, which is three times greater than the combined capacity of the nine telecommunications satellites currently in use by Indonesia.
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SpaceX Reusable Rockets
The launch also allows SpaceX to demonstrate its rocket reusability prowess.
According to SpaceX, this mission's first stage booster previously launched CRS-22, Crew-3, Turksat 5B, Crew-4, CRS-25, Eutelsat HOTBIRD 13G, mPOWER-a, and four Starlink missions.
Following stage separation, the first stage will land in the Atlantic Ocean on the Just Read the Instructions droneship.
Positioned in the Atlantic Ocean just off the Florida coast, the droneship will serve as a stable platform for the returning booster.
The touchdown is scheduled to occur around 8.5 minutes after liftoff. Notably, this particular booster has an impressive track record, with twelve successful launches and landings.
Bridging Indonesia's Internet Needs
The Indonesian government's commitment to strengthening internet networks and promoting digital development is commendable.
With the launch of SATRIA-1, Indonesia aims to bridge the connectivity gap and foster inclusion by providing reliable internet access to vital public institutions.
This initiative aligns with the nation's digital transformation and socioeconomic progress goals, as stated by the International Trade Administration.
Father's Day Launch
As the launch window draws near, excitement builds for the successful deployment of SATRIA-1 and the potential touchdown of the Falcon 9 booster.
SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of space technology with its reusable rockets, revolutionizing the industry and paving the way for more accessible and cost-effective space exploration.
Be sure to tune in to witness this exciting event in space history in time for Father's Day.
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