Launch Alert: SpaceX's SES O3b mPOWER mission, scheduled for today, will see the deployment of two cutting-edge communication satellites into medium Earth orbit (MEO).
Here's all you need to know about this exciting event, including how and where to watch it.
When and Where to Watch
The Falcon 9 rocket carrying these two communication satellites is primed to take off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The launch window opens at 4:08 p.m. EST (2108 GMT), providing an 89-minute timeframe for liftoff (see mission information).
For those eager to witness this remarkable event, you can tune in to SpaceX's live coverage on X (formerly Twitter), starting approximately five minutes before the launch.
Mission Details
SpaceX's mission plan is as ambitious as ever. After liftoff, the Falcon 9's first stage will return to Earth, executing a precise vertical touchdown on SpaceX's drone ship, aptly named "A Shortfall of Gravitas."
This autonomous vessel will be positioned in the Atlantic Ocean, ready to welcome the returning rocket. However, it is important to note that the rocket's upper stage will not be recovered, in line with the standard procedure for Falcon 9 missions.
Approximately two hours after liftoff, the rocket's upper stage will deploy the first of the two communication satellites into medium Earth orbit (MEO), residing at an impressive altitude of 5,000 miles (8,000 km) above Earth's surface.
Just seven minutes later, the second satellite will join its counterpart in this strategically positioned orbit.
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The O3b Constellation
Space.com tells us that these two satellites, constructed by Boeing, will be instrumental in expanding the O3b constellation of communication satellites managed by SES S.A. of Luxembourg.
The O3b constellation is set to play a pivotal role in delivering high-speed connectivity to various customers, including government agencies and private industries. The full six-satellite constellation is anticipated to be operational starting in late 2023.
This marks another significant step in the ongoing quest to enhance global communication networks and provide reliable internet services to underserved regions.
Reused Falcon 9 Booster
The Falcon 9 booster selected for this mission has an impressive track record. It has been reused for eight previous missions, five dedicated to expanding SpaceX's Starlink mega constellation, aimed at providing widespread broadband internet coverage.
Currently, Starlink consists of over 5,000 operational satellites, marking another notable achievement for SpaceX in satellite internet connectivity.
The SES O3b mPOWER mission signifies the 84th launch of the year for SpaceX, underlining the company's incredible pace of activities in the space industry.
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