SpaceX Launching 24 Starlink Satellites From Florida Today After Weather Delay

SpaceX poised for Starlink satellite launch from Florida

SpaceX is aiming to launch 24 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida today, January 19, 2023. The launch, which was previously scheduled for Tuesday, was delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions.

Initially targeted for a 9:37 a.m. EST liftoff, the launch is now expected to take place during a backup launch window that opens at 11:10 a.m. EST. SpaceX will use a Falcon 9 rocket to carry the satellites into orbit.

The Starlink mission

Expanding global internet access

Starlink is a satellite-based internet service developed by SpaceX. The mission of the Starlink constellation is to provide low-cost, high-speed internet access to remote areas that lack reliable connectivity.

The satellites launched today will join the growing Starlink constellation, which currently consists of over 3,000 satellites in orbit. SpaceX plans to expand the constellation to over 42,000 satellites in the coming years.

Enhancing global connectivity

The Starlink service has already had a significant impact on internet access in remote areas. In Ukraine, Starlink has provided essential connectivity for military operations and civilians during the ongoing war. Starlink has also been deployed to provide internet access to disaster-stricken areas, such as Tonga following the volcanic eruption and tsunami in January 2022.

Technical details of the launch

Today's launch will be the first Starlink launch of 2023 and the first SpaceX launch from Cape Canaveral since December 5, 2022.

The Falcon 9 rocket that will be used for the launch is a reusable two-stage rocket. The first stage of the rocket will be used to lift the satellites into orbit, and then it will return to Earth to land on a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean.

Launch schedule and live stream

SpaceX has not yet announced a specific launch time for today's mission. However, the launch is expected to take place during the backup launch window that opens at 11:10 a.m. EST. The company will provide a live stream of the launch.