Despite Earth being engulfed in a major Solar storm, SpaceX achieved yet another milestone by successfully deploying 23 Starlink satellites to low Earth orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
The launch occurred at 8:53 pm ET, coinciding with the rare spectacle of Aurora being visible as far south as the launch site itself.
Historically, significant Solar events have led to launch delays due to potential impacts on onboard electronics and increased atmospheric drag around orbiting spacecraft. However, SpaceX confirmed that all 23 Starlink satellites weathered the storm impeccably, undergoing standard post-launch checkouts as they ascend to operational orbit.
Designated as Starlink Group 6-58, this batch was deployed into a 43-degree orbital inclination, approximately one hour after liftoff. The mission's Falcon 9 booster, Booster 1073, completed its 15th flight, demonstrating remarkable reusability by landing on the droneship 'A Shortfall of Gravitas.'
Notably, the SpaceX stream included audio of the Falcon 9 landing under the power of a single Merlin 1D engine, possibly indicating tests for enhanced streaming capabilities from remote locations via Starlink.
Booster 1073 has an illustrious track record, having supported missions such as the CRS-27 ISS resupply, various rideshare missions, and multiple satellite launches, including Starlink deployments.
Despite the Solar storm, the successful launch underscores the resilience of the Starlink satellites. Even if affected, their orbital parameters ensure safe de-orbiting, mitigating the risk of contributing to space debris at high altitudes.
Next in line for SpaceX is another Starlink launch from California, scheduled for Tuesday at 9:29 am PT.
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