Today is the day SpaceX is targeting to launch. On Wednesday, June 3 at 9:25 p.m. EDT, 1:25 UTC on June 4, SpaceX plans to launch the eighth batch of Starlink satellites. A Falcon 9 liftoff from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station marks the eighth mission totaling 500 satellites launched to orbit(not including proof of concept).
This Falcon 9’s first stage supported the Telstar 18 VANTAGE mission in September 2018, the Iridium-8 mission in January 2019, and two prior Starlink missions in May 2019 and in January 2020. SpaceX intends to recover the landing booster. Following stage separation, the Falcon 9’s first stage descends back towards the Atlantic and landing on the “Just Read the Instructions” droneship.
Prior to insertion into the final orbits, SpaceX engineers shall conduct data reviews to ensure all nominal operation of all Starlink satellites. Once the checkouts complete, each of the 60 satellites will then use their onboard ion thrusters to slowly adjust the orbit to the intended 550 km orbits.
Live launch coverage will begin about 15 minutes before liftoff. The Starlink satellites will deploy in an elliptical orbit approximately 15 minutes after liftoff. To watch the webcast visit spacex.com/launches .
Should the SpaceX rocket launch be scrubbed, a backup opportunity is available on Thursday, June 4 at 9:03 p.m. EDT, 1:03 UTC on June 5.
