SpaceX to launch new Starlink satellite fleet today (Sept. 4)
Mission overview
SpaceX is scheduled to launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at 9:42 a.m. EDT today (Sept. 4), carrying 53 Starlink internet satellites into orbit.
This will be the third Starlink launch in less than two weeks, and the 31st overall.
The Starlink constellation is designed to provide high-speed internet access to remote and underserved areas around the world.
Payload
The Falcon 9 rocket will be carrying a payload of 53 Starlink satellites, each weighing approximately 260 kilograms.
The satellites will be deployed into a low Earth orbit, approximately 550 kilometers above the Earth's surface.
Once in orbit, the satellites will use ion thrusters to reach their operational altitude of 340 kilometers.
Launch details
The launch is scheduled to take place at 9:42 a.m. EDT from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
The launch window is instantaneous, meaning that there is only a small window of time when the launch can take place.
If the launch is delayed, it will likely be rescheduled for later today or tomorrow.
Broadcast
SpaceX will provide a live webcast of the launch on its website.
The webcast will begin approximately 15 minutes before the scheduled launch time.
You can also watch the launch live on NASA TV.
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