SpaceX Gears Up for 12th Starlink Launch of the Year from Vandenberg
SpaceX is preparing to launch its 12th Starlink mission of 2026, further expanding its broadband internet constellation. The launch, designated Starlink 17-34, is scheduled for Wednesday morning from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Expanding the Starlink Network
This mission will add 24 Starlink satellites to the low Earth orbit network, increasing the availability of high-speed internet access globally. The growing constellation aims to provide reliable connectivity to underserved areas around the world.
Launch Details and Booster Information
Liftoff is currently scheduled for 9:07:50 a.m. PST (12:07:50 p.m. EST / 1707:50 UTC). The Falcon 9 rocket will follow a southerly trajectory after leaving the launchpad. The booster used for this mission is Falcon 9 with tail number 1100. This will be its third flight, having previously supported the Starlink 11-30 and NROL-105 missions.
Booster Landing and SpaceX’s Reusable Rocket Technology
Approximately 8.5 minutes after liftoff, the Falcon 9 booster is targeted to land on the drone ship ‘Of Course I Still Love You,’ stationed in the Pacific Ocean. A successful landing would mark the 177th landing on this vessel and the 569th booster landing overall for SpaceX, demonstrating the company’s continued advancements in reusable rocket technology.
Spaceflight Now will provide live coverage of the launch, beginning approximately 30 minutes before liftoff. You can too view the launch on SpaceX’s YouTube channel.
The Future of Low Earth Orbit Constellations
The continued deployment of Starlink satellites, alongside similar projects from other companies, is reshaping the landscape of global internet access. These constellations promise to bridge the digital divide, offering connectivity to remote and rural communities that have historically lacked reliable internet service.
However, the increasing number of satellites in low Earth orbit also raises concerns about space debris and potential interference with astronomical observations. Ongoing research and development are focused on mitigating these risks, including satellite deorbiting technologies and improved tracking systems.
FAQ
- What is Starlink? Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX, providing high-speed, low-latency internet access.
- When is the launch? The launch is scheduled for 9:07:50 a.m. PST on Wednesday.
- Where is the launch taking place? The launch will occur from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
- Will the booster be recovered? Yes, the Falcon 9 booster is targeted to land on the drone ship ‘Of Course I Still Love You’ in the Pacific Ocean.
Pro Tip: Track the launch in real-time using online resources like SpaceX’s website or space tracking websites.
Stay tuned for updates on this and future SpaceX missions as the company continues to innovate and expand access to space and global connectivity.
Did you know? SpaceX’s reusable rocket technology significantly reduces the cost of space travel, making these frequent launches possible.
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