A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled to launch 15 Starlink internet satellites into orbit early Wednesday from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The launch is set for 1:25 a.m. EDT (0525 GMT; 10:25 p.m. on July 18 local California time).
The live coverage of the launch can be watched on Space.com or directly through SpaceX. The stream is expected to begin approximately five minutes before liftoff.
After launch, the Falcon 9's first stage will attempt a vertical landing on SpaceX's droneship named "Of Course I Still Love You." This particular booster has already completed nine successful liftoffs and landings, with a record of 16 set on July 9 and tied on July 15.
Following separation, the Falcon 9's upper stage will continue carrying the 15 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO). Deployment of the satellites is anticipated around 15 minutes after launch.
Starlink is SpaceX's network of broadband satellites, consisting of approximately 4,450 operational spacecraft in LEO, according to satellite tracker Jonathan McDowell.
The number of Starlink satellites will continue to increase significantly in the future. SpaceX already has permission to launch 12,000 satellites and has applied for approval to deploy an additional 30,000.
Starlink aims to provide global broadband coverage, particularly in underserved areas. The network has garnered attention and is expected to play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide.
With this launch, SpaceX continues its ambitious Starlink deployment, bringing us closer to a world where reliable and accessible internet connectivity is available to everyone, regardless of their location.