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SpaceX launches GPS satellite for Air Force with expended Falcon 9
Early this morning at 9:21am EST at Cape Canaveral, Florida, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket carried the Air Force's GPS III space vehicle into orbit around Earth. Due to the requirements for this mission, the first stage of the Falcon 9 was expended and not recovered. The payload needs the extra performance to ensure it gets into the correct inclination for its orbit. The GPS III satellite is the Air Force's first Global Positioning System III vehicle and will deliver positioning, navigations, and t
Possible parts for SpaceX's Starship hopping test article show up at Boca Chica launch site
Earlier today, photos were posted on Twitter of what looks like possible parts for the upcoming Starship test article that'll be used to "hop" to analyze the control and stability of the craft on landing. Following these, images, Elon did confirm that the pieces are made out of stainless steel, but are a very different material than the old Atlas rockets.Elon did confirm that these were parts for the Starship test article, as well as giving a lot of new information about it. He mentioned that t
Possible parts for SpaceX's Starship hopping test article show up at Boca Chica launch site
Earlier today, photos were posted on Twitter of what looks like possible parts for the upcoming Starship test article that'll be used to "hop" to analyze the control and stability of the craft on landing. Following these, images, Elon did confirm that the pieces are made out of stainless steel, but are a very different material than the old Atlas rockets.Elon did confirm that these were parts for the Starship test article, as well as giving a lot of new information about it. He mentioned that t
First satellite for the French Military's surveillance network launched on Soyuz rocket
Today at 11:37am EST, a Russian Soyuz rocket launched from Arianespace's French Guiana launchpad in South America. This also marks the last launch of the year for Arianespace.The Soyuz carried the CSO-1 satellite, or the Composante Spatiale Optique satellite, which is the first of the French Military's new series of reconnaissance satellites. This is the new space-based surveillance network that will collect day and night imagery in visible and infrared bands.CSO-1 weighed about 7,850 pounds (3
First satellite for the French Military's surveillance network launched on Soyuz rocket
Today at 11:37am EST, a Russian Soyuz rocket launched from Arianespace's French Guiana launchpad in South America. This also marks the last launch of the year for Arianespace.The Soyuz carried the CSO-1 satellite, or the Composante Spatiale Optique satellite, which is the first of the French Military's new series of reconnaissance satellites. This is the new space-based surveillance network that will collect day and night imagery in visible and infrared bands.CSO-1 weighed about 7,850 pounds (3
Indian Air Force satellite successfully launched atop GLSV Mk.2 rocket
Today, December 19th, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully launched the GSAT 7A Spacecraft into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit atop their Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk. 2 (GSLV Mk.2). This launch vehicle produces about 1.8 million pounds of thrust to lift the rocket and the payload off the launch pad. This is the seventh launch of the GSLV rocket and the last launch of the year for the Indian Space Program. Liftoff occurred at 5:40am EST from the Second Launch
Indian Air Force satellite successfully launched atop GLSV Mk.2 rocket
Today, December 19th, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully launched the GSAT 7A Spacecraft into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit atop their Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk. 2 (GSLV Mk.2). This launch vehicle produces about 1.8 million pounds of thrust to lift the rocket and the payload off the launch pad. This is the seventh launch of the GSLV rocket and the last launch of the year for the Indian Space Program. Liftoff occurred at 5:40am EST from the Second Launch
Rocket Lab successfully launches NASA's ElaNa-19 mission
At 1:16am EST, Rocket Lab launched their Electron rocket carrying a NASA mission for the very first time from the Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand. Electron was carrying 13 CubeSats, weighing 172 pounds, into a 500km x 500km orbit using the kick stage. This was the first time that NASA CubeSats got a dedicated ride to orbit on a commercial launch vehicle.This launch was made possible by NASA's Venture Class Launch Services (VCLS) initiative. Before now, CubeSats were limited to ride share arrange
Rocket Lab successfully launches NASA's ElaNa-19 mission
At 1:16am EST, Rocket Lab launched their Electron rocket carrying a NASA mission for the very first time from the Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand. Electron was carrying 13 CubeSats, weighing 172 pounds, into a 500km x 500km orbit using the kick stage. This was the first time that NASA CubeSats got a dedicated ride to orbit on a commercial launch vehicle.This launch was made possible by NASA's Venture Class Launch Services (VCLS) initiative. Before now, CubeSats were limited to ride share arrange
SpaceX successfully delivers Dragon to the ISS, but has a mishap during landing
Yesterday at 1:16pm EST, SpaceX launched their Dragon spacecraft on top of a brand new block 5 Falcon 9 to send it up to the International Space Station carrying cargo and experiments for astronauts onboard. The Falcon 9 lifted off from Space Launch Complex 40 powered by 9 Merlin engines with a total thrust of 1,710,000 pounds. About 2.5 minutes into flight, the first stage main engines shutdown and the two stages separated, sending the second stage on its own to carrying Dragon the rest of the
SpaceX successfully delivers Dragon to the ISS, but has a mishap during landing
Yesterday at 1:16pm EST, SpaceX launched their Dragon spacecraft on top of a brand new block 5 Falcon 9 to send it up to the International Space Station carrying cargo and experiments for astronauts onboard. The Falcon 9 lifted off from Space Launch Complex 40 powered by 9 Merlin engines with a total thrust of 1,710,000 pounds. About 2.5 minutes into flight, the first stage main engines shutdown and the two stages separated, sending the second stage on its own to carrying Dragon the rest of the
SpaceX successfully launches 64 satellites and lands same booster for the third time
Yesterday afternoon at 1:34pm EST, SpaceX launched their Falcon 9 rocket carrying the SSO-A mission with SHERPA from Space Launch Complex 4 at the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. This mission was a big deal for SpaceX, such as reusing a first stage booster for a third time for the first time, the first booster to launch from all three SpaceX pads (SLC-40, LC-39A, SLC-4), and the most launches in a year with 19 and 22 by the end of the year. Lastly, it's the largest ride share on a US
SpaceX successfully launches 64 satellites and lands same booster for the third time
Yesterday afternoon at 1:34pm EST, SpaceX launched their Falcon 9 rocket carrying the SSO-A mission with SHERPA from Space Launch Complex 4 at the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. This mission was a big deal for SpaceX, such as reusing a first stage booster for a third time for the first time, the first booster to launch from all three SpaceX pads (SLC-40, LC-39A, SLC-4), and the most launches in a year with 19 and 22 by the end of the year. Lastly, it's the largest ride share on a US
OSIRIS-REx arrives at Bennu
After two years of coasting through deep space, doing course corrections, and flying by Earth, OSIRIS-REx has arrived at the asteroid Bennu. Today at about 12:30pm EST, OSIRIS-REx officially reached the asteroid. The spacecraft will be retrieving a sample from the surface of the asteroid before leaving and returning to Earth. Alongside collecting a sample, it will be analyzing and mapping the surface of the asteroid and obtaining data that we can use to learn about the creation of our planet a
OSIRIS-REx arrives at Bennu
After two years of coasting through deep space, doing course corrections, and flying by Earth, OSIRIS-REx has arrived at the asteroid Bennu. Today at about 12:30pm EST, OSIRIS-REx officially reached the asteroid. The spacecraft will be retrieving a sample from the surface of the asteroid before leaving and returning to Earth. Alongside collecting a sample, it will be analyzing and mapping the surface of the asteroid and obtaining data that we can use to learn about the creation of our planet a
NASA's InSight successfully lands on Mars
NASA's InSight lander successfully lands on Mars after a 6 month journey from Earth! All reports from InSight are nominal and the spacecraft is safe on the surface of the red planet. The Entry, Descent, and Landing process through the atmosphere went nominally and placed the lander safely on Mars, the first landing since Curiosity landed in 2012. In roughly 5 hours we'll get confirmation on solar array deployment as well as some photos from the surface of Mars. This is the first photo from the
NASA's InSight successfully lands on Mars
NASA's InSight lander successfully lands on Mars after a 6 month journey from Earth! All reports from InSight are nominal and the spacecraft is safe on the surface of the red planet. The Entry, Descent, and Landing process through the atmosphere went nominally and placed the lander safely on Mars, the first landing since Curiosity landed in 2012. In roughly 5 hours we'll get confirmation on solar array deployment as well as some photos from the surface of Mars. This is the first photo from the
NASA InSight on track to land on Mars tomorrow
After being launched in May of this year, NASA's InSight is on track to land on the red planet tomorrow afternoon. This will be the first landing on Mars since the Curiosity rover landed back in 2012! The InSight mission is designed to explore, monitor, and analyze the surface of Mars and everything below the surface. The lander is seeking how a rocky body evolves and forms into a planet and determine tectonic activity below the surface. This mission is going to help give us a deeper understand
NASA InSight on track to land on Mars tomorrow
After being launched in May of this year, NASA's InSight is on track to land on the red planet tomorrow afternoon. This will be the first landing on Mars since the Curiosity rover landed back in 2012! The InSight mission is designed to explore, monitor, and analyze the surface of Mars and everything below the surface. The lander is seeking how a rocky body evolves and forms into a planet and determine tectonic activity below the surface. This mission is going to help give us a deeper understand
Northrup Grumman's Antares rocket launches Cygnus to the ISS
Early Saturday morning, Northrup Grumman's Antares rocket launched from NASA's Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia and carried the Cygnus spacecraft into orbit to rendezvous with the International Space Station. Liftoff occurred at 4:01am EST from Launch Pad 0A of Virginia Space's Mid-Atlantic Spaceport. The NG-10 Cygnus Spacecraft is named after former astronaut John Young, who was NASA's longest serving astronaut and was a pioneer in human spaceflight while paving the way for humans living
Northrup Grumman's Antares rocket launches Cygnus to the ISS
Early Saturday morning, Northrup Grumman's Antares rocket launched from NASA's Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia and carried the Cygnus spacecraft into orbit to rendezvous with the International Space Station. Liftoff occurred at 4:01am EST from Launch Pad 0A of Virginia Space's Mid-Atlantic Spaceport. The NG-10 Cygnus Spacecraft is named after former astronaut John Young, who was NASA's longest serving astronaut and was a pioneer in human spaceflight while paving the way for humans living
Atlas V rolls out ahead of Tuesday night's launch
Today at 11:10am EDT, United Launch Alliance's Atlas V rocket made the 1,800ft journey from the vertical integration facility to Space Launch Complex 41 by rail ahead of tomorrow night's launch. The Atlas V will be launching the AEHF-4 mission for the US military and it's a protected communications relay station for them and allies. The Atlas V will launch from SLC-41 in Cape Canaveral, FL at 12:15am EDT on Wednesday October 17th (Tomorrow Night). It is in its 511 configuration where it will u
Atlas V rolls out ahead of Tuesday night's launch
Today at 11:10am EDT, United Launch Alliance's Atlas V rocket made the 1,800ft journey from the vertical integration facility to Space Launch Complex 41 by rail ahead of tomorrow night's launch. The Atlas V will be launching the AEHF-4 mission for the US military and it's a protected communications relay station for them and allies. The Atlas V will launch from SLC-41 in Cape Canaveral, FL at 12:15am EDT on Wednesday October 17th (Tomorrow Night). It is in its 511 configuration where it will u
An emergency landing for US-Russian crew after Soyuz launch failure
Last night at 4:47am EDT, Russia's Soyuz rocket liftoff off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome carrying 3 crew to the International Space Station. Shortly after liftoff, there was an anomaly during the separation event of the 4 side boosters, causing the crew to go on a ballistic reentry abort and land back on Earth. There hasn't been official confirmation as to what went wrong, but Russia has started a full investigation to pinpoint the issue. The crew experienced about 6.7Gs of force during their
An emergency landing for US-Russian crew after Soyuz launch failure
Last night at 4:47am EDT, Russia's Soyuz rocket liftoff off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome carrying 3 crew to the International Space Station. Shortly after liftoff, there was an anomaly during the separation event of the 4 side boosters, causing the crew to go on a ballistic reentry abort and land back on Earth. There hasn't been official confirmation as to what went wrong, but Russia has started a full investigation to pinpoint the issue. The crew experienced about 6.7Gs of force during their
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope enters safe mode after a gyroscope failure
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope entered into "Safe Mode" on Friday after having an on-board gyroscope fail. These gyroscopes are used to help keep the telescope pointed in a specific direction for Long periods of time. Without the functions gyros, the telescope cannot orientate itself to a desired point in space. The Hubble Space Telescope Twitter tweeted today, "Mission experts are taking steps to return Hubble to great science.". They have a backup gyro onboard, but it Is being "problematic" a
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope enters safe mode after a gyroscope failure
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope entered into "Safe Mode" on Friday after having an on-board gyroscope fail. These gyroscopes are used to help keep the telescope pointed in a specific direction for Long periods of time. Without the functions gyros, the telescope cannot orientate itself to a desired point in space. The Hubble Space Telescope Twitter tweeted today, "Mission experts are taking steps to return Hubble to great science.". They have a backup gyro onboard, but it Is being "problematic" a
SpaceX is gearing up for a launch and landing on the West Coast this weekend
Just after 5pm EDT on Tuesday, SpaceX tweeted out that they had a successful static fire of their Falcon 9 rocket for the launch of SAOCOM 1A spacecraft this weekend. Currently SpaceX is targeting a launch time of 7:21pm PDT (10:21pm EDT) Sunday night from Space Launch Complex 4 West (SLC-4W) at California's Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB). After liftoff and first stage separation, the flight-proven first stage will flip around and fly back toward the VAFB and attempt the first "Return to Lau
SpaceX is gearing up for a launch and landing on the West Coast this weekend
Just after 5pm EDT on Tuesday, SpaceX tweeted out that they had a successful static fire of their Falcon 9 rocket for the launch of SAOCOM 1A spacecraft this weekend. Currently SpaceX is targeting a launch time of 7:21pm PDT (10:21pm EDT) Sunday night from Space Launch Complex 4 West (SLC-4W) at California's Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB). After liftoff and first stage separation, the flight-proven first stage will flip around and fly back toward the VAFB and attempt the first "Return to Lau
Parker Solar Probe completes its first flyby of Venus since launch in August
Today, the Parker Solar Probe completed the first flyby of Venus to bring down its orbit to get closer to the sun. The flyby was at a distance of about 1,500 miles and was the first of 7 total flybys the spacecraft will encounter. The teams will be taking data from this flyby and will be assessed over the next few days. Parker Solar Probe is now enroute to its first close encounter with the sun.
Parker Solar Probe completes its first flyby of Venus since launch in August
Today, the Parker Solar Probe completed the first flyby of Venus to bring down its orbit to get closer to the sun. The flyby was at a distance of about 1,500 miles and was the first of 7 total flybys the spacecraft will encounter. The teams will be taking data from this flyby and will be assessed over the next few days. Parker Solar Probe is now enroute to its first close encounter with the sun. #ParkerSolarProbe
SpaceX will be launching globally recognized Yusaku Maezawa around the moon with 8 artists on BFR
Tonight SpaceX announced new information regarding the updated BFR rocket and who their first paying customer is! His name is Yusaku Maezawa and is a world known artist curator from Japan and will be choosing 8 artists of his choice to fly with him. He's already put down a downpayment for the flight that is set to occur in 2023 and has purchased the entire BFR for the flight, so the 8 artists will be flying for free. The project is called #dearMoon, and more can be read about it here: https://d
SpaceX will be launching globally recognized Yusaku Maezawa around the moon with 8 artists on BFR
Tonight SpaceX announced new information regarding the updated BFR rocket and who their first paying customer is! His name is Yusaku Maezawa and is a world known artist curator from Japan and will be choosing 8 artists of his choice to fly with him. He's already put down a downpayment for the flight that is set to occur in 2023 and has purchased the entire BFR for the flight, so the 8 artists will be flying for free. The project is called #dearMoon, and more can be read about it here: https://d
SpaceX will be announcing BFR upgrades and who they're going to fly around the Moon
At 6:00pm PDT (9:00pm EDT), SpaceX will be announcing who they plan on flying around the Moon on thee BFR. This new rocket is sporting a new design since the last time they showed us their plan for this beast of a machine. Last night, Elon tweeted out two photos showing new officialrenders of the BFR, both shown in this article. Following the photos, he started to reveal some of the new features that stand out in them.Here's what we know: While not shown in the renders, there are grid fins on
SpaceX will be announcing BFR upgrades and who they're going to fly around the Moon
At 6:00pm PDT (9:00pm EDT), SpaceX will be announcing who they plan on flying around the Moon on thee BFR. This new rocket is sporting a new design since the last time they showed us their plan for this beast of a machine. Last night, Elon tweeted out two photos showing new officialrenders of the BFR, both shown in this article. Following the photos, he started to reveal some of the new features that stand out in them.Here's what we know: While not shown in the renders, there are grid fins on
SpaceX launches its 60th mission after minor delays
On September 10th, at 12:45am EDT, SpaceX launched their 60th successful mission, carrying the Telstar 18V satellite into a Geostationary Transfer orbit on a new Block 5 booster. SpaceX launched their Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 in Cape Canaveral, Florida sporting a new Block 5 booster. Following stage separation, the first stage followed along its trajectory, without performing a boost back burn, and reentered the atmosphere to land on their droneship "Of Course I Still Love Yo
SpaceX launches its 60th mission after minor delays
On September 10th, at 12:45am EDT, SpaceX launched their 60th successful mission, carrying the Telstar 18V satellite into a Geostationary Transfer orbit on a new Block 5 booster. SpaceX launched their Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 in Cape Canaveral, Florida sporting a new Block 5 booster. Following stage separation, the first stage followed along its trajectory, without performing a boost back burn, and reentered the atmosphere to land on their droneship "Of Course I Still Love Yo
NASA's completed Mobile Launch Platform for SLS rolls onto LC-39B
On August 31st, 2018, NASA's Mobile Launch Platform (MLP) that will support the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion Spacecraft arrived at Launch Complex 39B for fit checks and system testing. Before departing toward the launchpad, NASA's Crawler Transporter had to go pickup the MLP by going underneath it and then having it attached to the top. The 380ft Tall MLP travelled toward the launchpad at a whopping 0.7mph (1.13kmh) down the crawlerway. The Mobile Launch Platform is a key part in
NASA's completed Mobile Launch Platform for SLS rolls onto LC-39B
On August 31st, 2018, NASA's Mobile Launch Platform (MLP) that will support the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion Spacecraft arrived at Launch Complex 39B for fit checks and system testing. Before departing toward the launchpad, NASA's Crawler Transporter had to go pickup the MLP by going underneath it and then having it attached to the top. The 380ft Tall MLP travelled toward the launchpad at a whopping 0.7mph (1.13kmh) down the crawlerway. The Mobile Launch Platform is a key part in
Air leak detected on-board the International Space Station
Crews on board the International Space Station have started work to repair a small leak in the Soyuz MS-09 Spacecraft. While the crew were sleeping, officials on the ground noticed a small drop in cabin pressure around 7pm EDT. This leak poses no immediate danger to the crew as they have weeks of air left on the station with the leak present, but they have started to repair the hole. To slow the loss of air and pressure, they've applied Kapton Tape over the hole, which is regularly used as an i
Air leak detected on-board the International Space Station
Crews on board the International Space Station have started work to repair a small leak in the Soyuz MS-09 Spacecraft. While the crew were sleeping, officials on the ground noticed a small drop in cabin pressure around 7pm EDT. This leak poses no immediate danger to the crew as they have weeks of air left on the station with the leak present, but they have started to repair the hole. To slow the loss of air and pressure, they've applied Kapton Tape over the hole, which is regularly used as an i
Parker Solar Probe launched on SUNday to get closer to the Sun than ever before
Early in the morning on Sunday, at 3:31am EDT, United Launch Alliance's Delta IV Heavy rocket lifted off from SLC-37 for the first time in over a year. It was delayed from its first attempt on Saturday due to an alarm caused by a helium gas regulator issue, aborting the launch for the day. On top of the Delta IV Heavy is the Parker Solar Probe. Named after Eugene Parker, this probe will dive deeper into the sun than any other spacecraft ever has before and will become the fastest human-made obj
Parker Solar Probe launched on SUNday to get closer to the Sun than ever before
Early in the morning on Sunday, at 3:31am EDT, United Launch Alliance's Delta IV Heavy rocket lifted off from SLC-37 for the first time in over a year. It was delayed from its first attempt on Saturday due to an alarm caused by a helium gas regulator issue, aborting the launch for the day. On top of the Delta IV Heavy is the Parker Solar Probe. Named after Eugene Parker, this probe will dive deeper into the sun than any other spacecraft ever has before and will become the fastest human-made obj
The first re-flight of a Falcon 9 block 5 booster launches tomorrow night
On Tuesday, August 7th, at 01:18am EDT, SpaceX will be launching the Merah Putih (Telkom-4) satellite from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) on top of a reused Block 5 first stage. This Block 5 booster previously supported the Bangabandhu-1 mission and was also the first Block 5 rocket to launch. There will be a recovery attempt for this booster on SpaceX's droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" (OCISLY) which will be positioned out in the Atlantic Ocean. No fairing recovery will be attempted si
The first re-flight of a Falcon 9 block 5 booster launches tomorrow night
On Tuesday, August 7th, at 01:18am EDT, SpaceX will be launching the Merah Putih (Telkom-4) satellite from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) on top of a reused Block 5 first stage. This Block 5 booster previously supported the Bangabandhu-1 mission and was also the first Block 5 rocket to launch. There will be a recovery attempt for this booster on SpaceX's droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" (OCISLY) which will be positioned out in the Atlantic Ocean. No fairing recovery will be attempted si
Meet Eugene Parker, the discoverer of Solar Wind
Eugene Parker was born on June 10th, 1927 in Houghton, Michigan and is currently 91 years old. Parker received his Bachelors in Science Degree from Michigan State University in 1948 and then later received his Ph.D. from Caltech in 1951. In the mid-1950s, he developed a theory on Solar Wind that moved through space at supersonic speeds and predicted the Parker Spiral shape of the Sun's magnetic field in the outer solar system. His theory was rejected by the Astrophysical Journal, but the editor
Meet Eugene Parker, the discoverer of Solar Wind
Eugene Parker was born on June 10th, 1927 in Houghton, Michigan and is currently 91 years old. Parker received his Bachelors in Science Degree from Michigan State University in 1948 and then later received his Ph.D. from Caltech in 1951. In the mid-1950s, he developed a theory on Solar Wind that moved through space at supersonic speeds and predicted the Parker Spiral shape of the Sun's magnetic field in the outer solar system. His theory was rejected by the Astrophysical Journal, but the editor
The 7th batch of Iridium satellites will launch tomorrow morning
Tomorrow morning SpaceX will be launching another batch of iridium satellites on their 7th mission. This is the first launch of the new Block 5 variant of the Falcon 9 from the west coast. The Iridum-7 launch will be taking place out of California's Vandenberg Air Force Base and will be delivered into a polar orbit around Earth at 7:39am EDT. With this mission, the first stage will be landing on the droneship "Just Read The Instructions" (JRTI) positioned out in the Pacific Ocean. The first st
The 7th batch of Iridium satellites will launch tomorrow morning
Tomorrow morning SpaceX will be launching another batch of iridium satellites on their 7th mission. This is the first launch of the new Block 5 variant of the Falcon 9 from the west coast. The Iridum-7 launch will be taking place out of California's Vandenberg Air Force Base and will be delivered into a polar orbit around Earth at 7:39am EDT. With this mission, the first stage will be landing on the droneship "Just Read The Instructions" (JRTI) positioned out in the Pacific Ocean. The first st
The Falcon 9 soars through the Florida night sky carrying Telstar 19v
SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket launched into Florida's night sky at 1:50am EDT with Telstar 19v inside the payload fairing. The Falcon 9 ascended into the sky as an orb of light at the newly upgraded rocket takes flight. This is the second time the new Block 5 version of the Falcon 9 has launches and is the first time from Space launch Complex 40 (SLC-40). The first stage separated and began to prepare for its landing as the second stage powered its way into orbit. The first stage came down and succe
The Falcon 9 soars through the Florida night sky carrying Telstar 19v
SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket launched into Florida's night sky at 1:50am EDT with Telstar 19v inside the payload fairing. The Falcon 9 ascended into the sky as an orb of light at the newly upgraded rocket takes flight. This is the second time the new Block 5 version of the Falcon 9 has launches and is the first time from Space launch Complex 40 (SLC-40). The first stage separated and began to prepare for its landing as the second stage powered its way into orbit. The first stage came down and succe
SpaceX will be launching its heaviest payload yet with their Falcon 9 rocket
Tonight at 1:50am EDT, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket will liftoff from Space Launch Complex 40 in Florida to a Geostationary Transfer Orbit. This is the second launch of their new Block 5 rocket carrying the Telstar 19 Vantage satellite, which weighs at 7,075kg, making it the heaviest payload launched by the Falcon 9. After stage separation, the first stage will perform a landing on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You", which is positioned in the Atlantic Ocean. A backup launch window in case
SpaceX will be launching its heaviest payload yet with their Falcon 9 rocket
Tonight at 1:50am EDT, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket will liftoff from Space Launch Complex 40 in Florida to a Geostationary Transfer Orbit. This is the second launch of their new Block 5 rocket carrying the Telstar 19 Vantage satellite, which weighs at 7,075kg, making it the heaviest payload launched by the Falcon 9. After stage separation, the first stage will perform a landing on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You", which is positioned in the Atlantic Ocean. A backup launch window in case
Lockheed Martin reduces satellite production time with 3-D printing processes
Lockheed Martin set a new record for 3-D Printed space hardware by printing a giant satellite tank out of titanium. The 46-inch diameter tank consists of three parts welded together and completed the final rounds of quality testing this month. "Our largest 3-D printed parts to date show we're committed to a future where we produce satellites twice as fast and at half the cost," said Lockheed's executive vice president, Rick Ambrose. They've cut the delivery time of satellite fuel tanks from two
Lockheed Martin reduces satellite production time with 3-D printing processes
Lockheed Martin set a new record for 3-D Printed space hardware by printing a giant satellite tank out of titanium. The 46-inch diameter tank consists of three parts welded together and completed the final rounds of quality testing this month. "Our largest 3-D printed parts to date show we're committed to a future where we produce satellites twice as fast and at half the cost," said Lockheed's executive vice president, Rick Ambrose. They've cut the delivery time of satellite fuel tanks from two
Delta IV Heavy performing launch sequence tests for the upcoming launch of NASA's Parker Solar P
United Launch Alliances's Delta IV Heavy rocket has been undergoing several rounds of testing to get the vehicle ready for launch No Earlier Than August 4th, 2018 from Launch Complex 37. The Wet Dress Rehearsals (WDR) started on July 2nd, where they focused on fueling the three first stage boosters. A second successful WDR was performed a few days later on July 6th, where they fueled the entire rocket and simulated a liftoff sequence. These tests help ensure that the rocket, ground systems, and
Delta IV Heavy performing launch sequence tests for the upcoming launch of NASA's Parker Solar P
United Launch Alliances's Delta IV Heavy rocket has been undergoing several rounds of testing to get the vehicle ready for launch No Earlier Than August 4th, 2018 from Launch Complex 37. The Wet Dress Rehearsals (WDR) started on July 2nd, where they focused on fueling the three first stage boosters. A second successful WDR was performed a few days later on July 6th, where they fueled the entire rocket and simulated a liftoff sequence. These tests help ensure that the rocket, ground systems, and
SpaceX launches their last Block 4 rocket, sending Dragon to the ISS
At 5:41am EDT, SpaceX launched their final Block 4 first stage, making all future launches the new Block 5 rocket. They launched their Dragon spacecraft en-route to the International Space Station carrying 5,900 pounds of cargo and science experiments. The Falcon 9 launched from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) and lit up the sky as the 9 Merlin engines ignited. The rocket ascended into the Florida skies and entered the sunlight just before first stage separation, causing the plume of the engin
SpaceX launches their last Block 4 rocket, sending Dragon to the ISS
At 5:41am EDT, SpaceX launched their final Block 4 first stage, making all future launches the new Block 5 rocket. They launched their Dragon spacecraft en-route to the International Space Station carrying 5,900 pounds of cargo and science experiments. The Falcon 9 launched from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) and lit up the sky as the 9 Merlin engines ignited. The rocket ascended into the Florida skies and entered the sunlight just before first stage separation, causing the plume of the engin
Early morning spectacular tomorrow as the Falcon 9 will ascend into the skies just before sunrise
SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket is ready on the pad for an early morning launch of 5:42am EDT. While the skies were gloomy and rainy during remote camera setup, weather is still 90% go for launch for on on-time liftoff tomorrow morning. This is the fifteenth resupply mission for SpaceX and Dragon under the Commercial Resupply Services contract with NASA. The Falcon 9 will be launching from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) with a first stage that was previously used for the TESS mission in April, and a
Early morning spectacular tomorrow as the Falcon 9 will ascend into the skies just before sunrise
SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket is ready on the pad for an early morning launch of 5:42am EDT. While the skies were gloomy and rainy during remote camera setup, weather is still 90% go for launch for on on-time liftoff tomorrow morning. This is the fifteenth resupply mission for SpaceX and Dragon under the Commercial Resupply Services contract with NASA. The Falcon 9 will be launching from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) with a first stage that was previously used for the TESS mission in April, and a
It's business time for Rocket Lab
Tonight at 10:27pm EDT, Rocket Lab's Electron rocket is launching from the Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand carrying 3 satellites as well as 2 more small satellites into an elliptical orbit. The satellites will be brought up to 500km and then circularized by Rocket Lab's Curie engine powered kick stage, completing the mission. The launch of Electron was originally scheduled for between April 20th through May 3rd, but was delayed due to unusual behavior with a motor controller during a wet dress r
It's business time for Rocket Lab
Tonight at 10:27pm EDT, Rocket Lab's Electron rocket is launching from the Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand carrying 3 satellites as well as 2 more small satellites into an elliptical orbit. The satellites will be brought up to 500km and then circularized by Rocket Lab's Curie engine powered kick stage, completing the mission. The launch of Electron was originally scheduled for between April 20th through May 3rd, but was delayed due to unusual behavior with a motor controller during a wet dress r
Ancient Organic Material found on the Red Planet
New evidence found by NASA's Curiosity rover suggests that Mars could have supported life in the past. The organic molecules were found in sedimentary rockets near the surface which date to about 3 billion years old and there is variations in the levels of methane in the atmosphere. These organic materials, while normally associated with life, can be made by non-biological processes and don't always mean there was once or currently life. Jen Eigenbrode of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in G
Ancient Organic Material found on the Red Planet
New evidence found by NASA's Curiosity rover suggests that Mars could have supported life in the past. The organic molecules were found in sedimentary rockets near the surface which date to about 3 billion years old and there is variations in the levels of methane in the atmosphere. These organic materials, while normally associated with life, can be made by non-biological processes and don't always mean there was once or currently life. Jen Eigenbrode of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in G
Block 5 Falcon Heavy is targeting this fall for the next launch
SpaceX's next Falcon Heavy is planned to launch from LC-39a with a payload for the Air Force - this time with more power. The next Falcon Heavy launch will use all Block 5 boosters instead of the mixed Block 2/3 boosters like the one that launched in February. The launch is targeted for no earlier than late October with a payload for the Air Force and its Space Technology Program-2 (STP-2) mission which includes dozens of spacecraft. NASA is also having a rideshare on this mission of their Deep
Block 5 Falcon Heavy is targeting this fall for the next launch
SpaceX's next Falcon Heavy is planned to launch from LC-39a with a payload for the Air Force - this time with more power. The next Falcon Heavy launch will use all Block 5 boosters instead of the mixed Block 2/3 boosters like the one that launched in February. The launch is targeted for no earlier than late October with a payload for the Air Force and its Space Technology Program-2 (STP-2) mission which includes dozens of spacecraft. NASA is also having a rideshare on this mission of their Deep
New Horizons spacecraft has woken up for hibernation ahead of its historic Kuiper Belt flyby
The New Horizons spacecraft has woken up from hibernation that started on December 21st and is preparing for its flyby of Ultima Thule, a Kuiber Belt object. The Mission Operations Manager (MOM), Alice Bowman, has reported that the spacecraft is operating nominally and is in good health after coming out of hibernation at 2:12am EDT. The New Horizons cruised through deep space more than 3.7 billion miles (6 billion kilometers) away from Earth during its almost 6 month hibernation period. This pe
New Horizons spacecraft has woken up for hibernation ahead of its historic Kuiper Belt flyby
The New Horizons spacecraft has woken up from hibernation that started on December 21st and is preparing for its flyby of Ultima Thule, a Kuiber Belt object. The Mission Operations Manager (MOM), Alice Bowman, has reported that the spacecraft is operating nominally and is in good health after coming out of hibernation at 2:12am EDT. The New Horizons cruised through deep space more than 3.7 billion miles (6 billion kilometers) away from Earth during its almost 6 month hibernation period. This pe
SES-12 will be launching on SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket tonight
Tonight at 12:29am EDT, the 4-hour launch window opens for the launch of SES-12 on SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket. The Falcon 9 will launch from Space launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) and ascend into Florida's night sky. The SES-12 satellite will separate from the second stage approximately 32 minutes after liftoff. The Falcon 9 that is launching SES-12 tonight is being launched on a flight-proven first stage that previously supported the OTV-5 mission that launched back in September. No recovery hardware
SES-12 will be launching on SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket tonight
Tonight at 12:29am EDT, the 4-hour launch window opens for the launch of SES-12 on SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket. The Falcon 9 will launch from Space launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) and ascend into Florida's night sky. The SES-12 satellite will separate from the second stage approximately 32 minutes after liftoff. The Falcon 9 that is launching SES-12 tonight is being launched on a flight-proven first stage that previously supported the OTV-5 mission that launched back in September. No recovery hardware
In case you missed it - Cygnus launches toward the Space Station
Relive this morning's launch of the Antares rocket carrying the Cygnus spacecraft into orbit. Antares launched at 4:44am EDT from Wallops Island, Virginia carrying 7,385lbs (3,350kg) of supplies into orbit around the Earth. Cygnus is named after J.R. Thompson, a leader in the aerospace industry, and is expected to arrive at the Space Station on May 24th. Cygnus is being launched under a Commercial Resupply Service contract with NASA to send supplies and experiments to the International Space St
In case you missed it - Cygnus launches toward the Space Station
Relive this morning's launch of the Antares rocket carrying the Cygnus spacecraft into orbit. Antares launched at 4:44am EDT from Wallops Island, Virginia carrying 7,385lbs (3,350kg) of supplies into orbit around the Earth. Cygnus is named after J.R. Thompson, a leader in the aerospace industry, and is expected to arrive at the Space Station on May 24th. Cygnus is being launched under a Commercial Resupply Service contract with NASA to send supplies and experiments to the International Space St
Orbital ATK's OA-9 Mission to take place early tomorrow morning
At 4:39am EDT tomorrow, Orbital ATK will launch their Antares rocket carrying the Cygnus spacecraft to the International Space Station from the Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. The launch was previously targeted for today, but was moved for "further pre-launch inspections and more favorable launch conditions" according to Orbital ATK. Orbital ATK launches Cygnus under NASA's CRS (Commerical Resupply Services) contract to send supplies and experiments to the International Space Station. Cygn
Orbital ATK's OA-9 Mission to take place early tomorrow morning
At 4:39am EDT tomorrow, Orbital ATK will launch their Antares rocket carrying the Cygnus spacecraft to the International Space Station from the Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia. The launch was previously targeted for today, but was moved for "further pre-launch inspections and more favorable launch conditions" according to Orbital ATK. Orbital ATK launches Cygnus under NASA's CRS (Commerical Resupply Services) contract to send supplies and experiments to the International Space Station. Cygn
SpaceX successfully delivers Bangladesh's first satellite into orbit on a brand new Falcon 9 des
After an abort yesterday due to a ground system issue, SpaceX's brand new Block 5 Falcon 9 rocket ignited and ascended into the sky. The Falcon 9 lifted off from SpaceX's Launch Complex 39a (LC-39a) with Bangladesh's first satellite inside the payload fairing at 4:14pm EDT. This satellite was the very first of many to launch on SpaceX's new Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket. This new and final variant version of the Falcon 9 will help aid in the goal of rapid reusability that will be capable of 10 or mor
SpaceX successfully delivers Bangladesh's first satellite into orbit on a brand new Falcon 9 des
After an abort yesterday due to a ground system issue, SpaceX's brand new Block 5 Falcon 9 rocket ignited and ascended into the sky. The Falcon 9 lifted off from SpaceX's Launch Complex 39a (LC-39a) with Bangladesh's first satellite inside the payload fairing at 4:14pm EDT. This satellite was the very first of many to launch on SpaceX's new Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket. This new and final variant version of the Falcon 9 will help aid in the goal of rapid reusability that will be capable of 10 or mor
Bangladesh to launch their first satellite on a new Falcon 9 rocket
SpaceX's new Falcon 9 rocket is vertical at Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) for today's launch of Bangladesh's first satellite, Bangabandhu-1. The launch is targeted for 4:42pm EDT with a backup time tomorrow at 4:14pm EDT. Bangabandhu-1 will be delivered into a geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) approximately 33 minutes after liftoff. This satellite is the very first of many to launch on SpaceX's new Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket. This new and final variant version of the Falcon 9 will help aid in the g
Bangladesh to launch their first satellite on a new Falcon 9 rocket
SpaceX's new Falcon 9 rocket is vertical at Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) for today's launch of Bangladesh's first satellite, Bangabandhu-1. The launch is targeted for 4:42pm EDT with a backup time tomorrow at 4:14pm EDT. Bangabandhu-1 will be delivered into a geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) approximately 33 minutes after liftoff. This satellite is the very first of many to launch on SpaceX's new Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket. This new and final variant version of the Falcon 9 will help aid in the g
Blue Origin's first launch of 2018 will take place this afternoon
Blue Origin's 8th launch of their New Shepard rocket will occur this afternoon at 12:43pm EDT from their West Texas launch site. After a couple delays this morning from thunderstorms, the launch countdown is underway once again. This is the 3rd overall booster of the New Shepard rocket. The first flown booster failed to land successfully and the 2nd booster re-flew multiple times and is now on display at Blue Origin's rocket factory in Florida. This third rocket flew at the end of the year last
Blue Origin's first launch of 2018 will take place this afternoon
Blue Origin's 8th launch of their New Shepard rocket will occur this afternoon at 12:43pm EDT from their West Texas launch site. After a couple delays this morning from thunderstorms, the launch countdown is underway once again. This is the 3rd overall booster of the New Shepard rocket. The first flown booster failed to land successfully and the 2nd booster re-flew multiple times and is now on display at Blue Origin's rocket factory in Florida. This third rocket flew at the end of the year last
TESS successfully delivered into orbit on the Falcon 9
At 6:51pm EDT, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket roared to life and climbed off the pad at Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The rocket soared into the clear Florida skies and accelerated TESS further into space to peer deep into the solar system. After first stage shutdown, the first and second stage separated. The second stage continued to push TESS to its desired orbit as the first stage flipped around to slow down for a picture-perfect landing on the East Coast droneship,
TESS successfully delivered into orbit on the Falcon 9
At 6:51pm EDT, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket roared to life and climbed off the pad at Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The rocket soared into the clear Florida skies and accelerated TESS further into space to peer deep into the solar system. After first stage shutdown, the first and second stage separated. The second stage continued to push TESS to its desired orbit as the first stage flipped around to slow down for a picture-perfect landing on the East Coast droneship,
NASA's planet searching satellite launch is pushed back 2 days
Today's launch of the Falcon 9 with NASA's TESS satellite has been pushed back to Wednesday. SpaceX will be conducting additional analysis of the Falcon's Guidence, Navigation, and Control systems to ensure a successful launch of this special payload. No launch time has been announced yet, but they're targeting Wednesday, April 18th.#NASA #SpaceX #Falcon9
NASA's planet searching satellite launch is pushed back 2 days
Today's launch of the Falcon 9 with NASA's TESS satellite has been pushed back to Wednesday. SpaceX will be conducting additional analysis of the Falcon's Guidence, Navigation, and Control systems to ensure a successful launch of this special payload. No launch time has been announced yet, but they're targeting Wednesday, April 18th.
TESS to launch on Falcon 9
Today, SpaceX is planning to launch NASA's TESS at 6:32pm EDT from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) on their Falcon 9 rocket. Following separation of the first and second stage, the first stage will perform a landing on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" approximately 8 minutes and 20 seconds after launch. TESS is NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite and will be the next planet finder. It's led out of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Kavli Institute for Astrophys
TESS to launch on Falcon 9
Today, SpaceX is planning to launch NASA's TESS at 6:32pm EDT from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) on their Falcon 9 rocket. Following separation of the first and second stage, the first stage will perform a landing on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" approximately 8 minutes and 20 seconds after launch. TESS is NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite and will be the next planet finder. It's led out of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Kavli Institute for Astrophys
Atlas V successfully launches AFSPC-11 into Florida's golden skies
Yesterday evening at 7:13pm EDT, United Launch Alliance launched their heaviest Atlas V rocket into the golden light on Florida's Space Coast. The Atlas V launched from Space Launch Complex 41 (SLC-41) in its 551 configuration with 5 Solid Rocket Boosters to loft the heavy AFSPC-11 satellite into its Geostationary Orbit. There were two spacecraft that were launched on this mission, CBAS and EAGLE. CBAS stands for Continuous Broadcast Augmenting SATCOM and EAGLE stands for ESPA Augmented GEO La
Atlas V successfully launches AFSPC-11 into Florida's golden skies
Yesterday evening at 7:13pm EDT, United Launch Alliance launched their heaviest Atlas V rocket into the golden light on Florida's Space Coast. The Atlas V launched from Space Launch Complex 41 (SLC-41) in its 551 configuration with 5 Solid Rocket Boosters to loft the heavy AFSPC-11 satellite into its Geostationary Orbit. There were two spacecraft that were launched on this mission, CBAS and EAGLE. CBAS stands for Continuous Broadcast Augmenting SATCOM and EAGLE stands for ESPA Augmented GEO La
Virgin Galactic takes to the skies again after 4 years
Yesterday, April 5th, Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo VSS Unity successfully completed its first supersonic, rocket-powered flight after spending two years going under extensive ground and atmospheric testing. Yesterdays flight saw amazing performance in terms of vehicle performance and altitude achieved, as well as the duration that the rocket burned for. Unity was dropped from Eve, the carrier aircraft, at about 46,500ft and ignited its main engine, accelerating the vehicle to nearly Mach 2 d
Virgin Galactic takes to the skies again after 4 years
Yesterday, April 5th, Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo VSS Unity successfully completed its first supersonic, rocket-powered flight after spending two years going under extensive ground and atmospheric testing. Yesterdays flight saw amazing performance in terms of vehicle performance and altitude achieved, as well as the duration that the rocket burned for. Unity was dropped from Eve, the carrier aircraft, at about 46,500ft and ignited its main engine, accelerating the vehicle to nearly Mach 2 d
SpaceX delivers Dragon to the ISS for a second time
As storm clouds begin to grow to the west of the launch pad, SpaceX's launches its Falcon 9 rocket on their fourteenth mission to the International Space Station. This reused Dragon capsule was launched at 4:30pm EDT from Space Launch Complex 40 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Base in Florida for the second time, carrying supplies and science experiments along with it. The Dragon spacecraft previously supported the CRS-8 mission back in April 2016 and will stay at the station for another month.
SpaceX delivers Dragon to the ISS for a second time
As storm clouds begin to grow to the west of the launch pad, SpaceX's launches its Falcon 9 rocket on their fourteenth mission to the International Space Station. This reused Dragon capsule was launched at 4:30pm EDT from Space Launch Complex 40 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Base in Florida for the second time, carrying supplies and science experiments along with it. The Dragon spacecraft previously supported the CRS-8 mission back in April 2016 and will stay at the station for another month
Dragon set to launch to the ISS tomorrow afternoon
SpaceX is targeting the launch of their Dragon spacecraft tomorrow, Monday April 2nd, at 4:30pm EDT from Space Launch Complex 40 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL. Dragon will launch on top of their Falcon 9 rocket which is using a "flight-proven" first stage which previously supported the CRS-12 mission last August. No recovery will be attempted on this first stage, but it will be used to practice high velocity 3 engine landing burns with minimal fuel left over to do so. This will pr
Dragon set to launch to the ISS tomorrow afternoon
SpaceX is targeting the launch of their Dragon spacecraft tomorrow, Monday April 2nd, at 4:30pm EDT from Space Launch Complex 40 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL. Dragon will launch on top of their Falcon 9 rocket which is using a "flight-proven" first stage which previously supported the CRS-12 mission last August. No recovery will be attempted on this first stage, but it will be used to practice high velocity 3 engine landing burns with minimal fuel left over to do so. This will pr
First SpaceX Block 5 launch confirmed
Thales Alenia Space confirmed to AmericaSpace today that their Bangabandhu-1 satellite will be launching on SpaceX's first 'Block-5' Falcon 9 rocket. The date is currently planned for NET April 24th, later than people had anticipated. The date was originally the first week of April, but slipped a few weeks back due to SpaceX running additional tests on the Block-5 first stage. Thales stated, "Bangabandu-1 will fly on the most advanced and reliable vehicle ever built by SpaceX". The Block-5, o
First SpaceX Block 5 launch confirmed
Thales Alenia Space confirmed to AmericaSpace today that their Bangabandhu-1 satellite will be launching on SpaceX's first 'Block-5' Falcon 9 rocket. The date is currently planned for NET April 24th, later than people had anticipated. The date was originally the first week of April, but slipped a few weeks back due to SpaceX running additional tests on the Block-5 first stage. Thales stated, "Bangabandu-1 will fly on the most advanced and reliable vehicle ever built by SpaceX". The Block-5, o
Launch of Iridium-5 slips due to satellite issue
Originally, Iridium-5 was supposed to be launched by SpaceX on their Falcon 9 rocket on March 29th at 7:19am PST, but has been pushed back a couple days. Matt Desch, CEO of Iridium, tweeted that they are having an issue with one of the ten satellites being launched and are resetting the date to NET March 31st at 7:08am PST (10:08am EST). There is a possibility that the launch could slip into next week, but as of right now 3/31 is the targeted date. "Launch success is priority #1!" Desch tweeted
Launch of Iridium-5 slips due to satellite issue
Originally, Iridium-5 was supposed to be launched by SpaceX on their Falcon 9 rocket on March 29th at 7:19am PST, but has been pushed back a couple days. Matt Desch, CEO of Iridium, tweeted that they are having an issue with one of the ten satellites being launched and are resetting the date to NET March 31st at 7:08am PST (10:08am EST). There is a possibility that the launch could slip into next week, but as of right now 3/31 is the targeted date. "Launch success is priority #1!" Desch tweeted
SpaceX successfully launches their largest payload on their 50th Falcon 9 launch
SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket successfully lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida at 12:33am EST carrying the Hispasat 30W-6 satellite into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit. As Falcon slowely cleared the pad, it ascended as an orb of light into the clear Florida sky as the 9 Merlin engines powered it into flight. The first stage performed nominally and the second stage placed the satellite into its desired orbit with no problems on the vehicle. The first stage for this mission was a new booster and w
SpaceX successfully launches their largest payload on their 50th Falcon 9 launch
SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket successfully lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida at 12:33am EST carrying the Hispasat 30W-6 satellite into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit. As Falcon slowely cleared the pad, it ascended as an orb of light into the clear Florida sky as the 9 Merlin engines powered it into flight. The first stage performed nominally and the second stage placed the satellite into its desired orbit with no problems on the vehicle. The first stage for this mission was a new booster and w
Falcon 9 will light up Florida's sky tonight
Tonight, at 12:33am EST, SpaceX will attempt to launch their Falcon 9 rocket carrying the Hispasat 30W-6 satellite into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit. The launch will take place at Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Base, FL. The launch window remains open for 2 hours stretching to 2:33am EST with a backup launch window on Wednesday, March 7th, at 12:33am EST. The first stage on this mission is a new booster and hasn't been previously flown, unlike the last fe
Falcon 9 will light up Florida's sky tonight
Tonight, at 12:33am EST, SpaceX will attempt to launch their Falcon 9 rocket carrying the Hispasat 30W-6 satellite into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit. The launch will take place at Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Base, FL. The launch window remains open for 2 hours stretching to 2:33am EST with a backup launch window on Wednesday, March 7th, at 12:33am EST. The first stage on this mission is a new booster and hasn't been previously flown, unlike the last fe
Falcon 9 successfully delivers PAZ satellite as well as Starlink satellites
Photo: Derrick Stamos // Spacecoaster ImagesThis morning at 6:17am PST (9:17am EST) SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket successfully lifted off from California's West coast carrying the PAZ satellite and 2 smaller satellites. After being delayed 24 hours, the Falcon 9 beautifully launched as it climbed into the California skies, becoming visible to everyone anywhere around the Vandenberg area. The first stage of this Falcon 9 rocket prevously supported the FORMOSAT-5 mission back in August 2017 from SLC-4
Falcon 9 successfully delivers PAZ satellite as well as Starlink satellites
Photo: Derrick Stamos // Spacecoaster ImagesThis morning at 6:17am PST (9:17am EST) SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket successfully lifted off from California's West coast carrying the PAZ satellite and 2 smaller satellites. After being delayed 24 hours, the Falcon 9 beautifully launched as it climbed into the California skies, becoming visible to everyone anywhere around the Vandenberg area. The first stage of this Falcon 9 rocket prevously supported the FORMOSAT-5 mission back in August 2017 from SLC-4
SpaceX delays the launch of the PAZ satellite
Earlier this morning, SpaceX had planned to launch the PAZ satellite into Low Earth Orbit from California's Vandenberg Air Force Base. Approximately 10 minutes prior to liftoff - SpaceX announced that they will be standing down from today's launch attempt due to strong upper winds. Another opportunity to launch will be tomorrow, February 22nd, at 6:17am PST (9:17am EST). Meanwhile, on the East coast, another Falcon 9 carrying theHispasat 30W-6 satellite is getting ready to launch. It successfull
SpaceX delays the launch of the PAZ satellite
Earlier this morning, SpaceX had planned to launch the PAZ satellite into Low Earth Orbit from California's Vandenberg Air Force Base. Approximately 10 minutes prior to liftoff - SpaceX announced that they will be standing down from today's launch attempt due to strong upper winds. Another opportunity to launch will be tomorrow, February 22nd, at 6:17am PST (9:17am EST). Meanwhile, on the East coast, another Falcon 9 carrying theHispasat 30W-6 satellite is getting ready to launch. It successfull
The PAZ satellite set to launch Sunday by SpaceX
SpaceX is currently planning the launch of the PAZ satellite into Low Earth Orbit atop their Falcon 9 rocket. They're currently targeting a liftoff time of 6:16am PST (9:16am EST), with an instantaneous launch window, meaning it has to launch at that time and no later. The satellite will be launched from Space launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, and will be released into its orbit approximately 11 minutes after launch. The first stage supporting this la
The PAZ satellite set to launch Sunday by SpaceX
SpaceX is currently planning the launch of the PAZ satellite into Low Earth Orbit atop their Falcon 9 rocket. They're currently targeting a liftoff time of 6:16am PST (9:16am EST), with an instantaneous launch window, meaning it has to launch at that time and no later. The satellite will be launched from Space launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, and will be released into its orbit approximately 11 minutes after launch. The first stage supporting this la
New droneship under construction for SpaceX rocket recovery
To this date, SpaceX currently has 2 droneships to land their first stage rockets on. Their first ever droneship, names "Just Read The Instructions" (JRTI) is currently located on the West coast for launches from Vandenberg in California. It was originally positioned on the East coast for launches from Florida, but was moved because they'd finished their second droneship - "Of Course I Still Love You" (OCISLY). "Of Course I Still Love You" is currently active on the East coast for Falcon 9 and
New droneship under construction for SpaceX rocket recovery
To this date, SpaceX currently has 2 droneships to land their first stage rockets on. Their first ever droneship, names "Just Read The Instructions" (JRTI) is currently located on the West coast for launches from Vandenberg in California. It was originally positioned on the East coast for launches from Florida, but was moved because they'd finished their second droneship - "Of Course I Still Love You" (OCISLY). "Of Course I Still Love You" is currently active on the East coast for Falcon 9 and
Crew Dragon recovery trainer spotted in Port Canaveral
Yesterday, February 9th, an object shaped similarly to SpaceX's Crew Dragon recovery trainer was seen in Port Canaveral. The mock-up was lifted by crane around 1pm and was lowered into "Go Searcher", a support ship used for SpaceX's recovery ops for first stage booster returns on the droneship. This full-scale mock-up of the spacecraft is made to practice safely getting astronauts out of the spacecraft after splashdown from the International Space Station (ISS). Doing these practices give the a
Crew Dragon recovery trainer spotted in Port Canaveral
Yesterday, February 9th, an object shaped similarly to SpaceX's Crew Dragon recovery trainer was seen in Port Canaveral. The mock-up was lifted by crane around 1pm and was lowered into "Go Searcher", a support ship used for SpaceX's recovery ops for first stage booster returns on the droneship. This full-scale mock-up of the spacecraft is made to practice safely getting astronauts out of the spacecraft after splashdown from the International Space Station (ISS). Doing these practices give the a
Falcon Heavy shakes Florida's space coast after a picture perfect launch (With photo gallery)
On Tuesday, February 6th, SpaceX launched their long awaited Falcon Heavy rocket and made history once again. After igniting the side boosters and then the core booster shortly thereafter, the rocket was released from the pad and began to roar to life and rumbled over the entire space coast. The Falcon Heavy rocket is comprised of 3 Falcon 9 cores strapped together. It isn't as simple as that - the core stage had to be redesigned to withstand the extreme forces being put onto it during flight f
Falcon Heavy shakes Florida's space coast after a picture perfect launch (With photo gallery)
On Tuesday, February 6th, SpaceX launched their long awaited Falcon Heavy rocket and made history once again. After igniting the side boosters and then the core booster shortly thereafter, the rocket was released from the pad and began to roar to life and rumbled over the entire space coast. The Falcon Heavy rocket is comprised of 3 Falcon 9 cores strapped together. It isn't as simple as that - the core stage had to be redesigned to withstand the extreme forces being put onto it during flight f
SpaceX's maiden launch of Falcon Heavy remains go for tomorrow afternoon
Tomorrow afternoon at 1:30pm EST, SpaceX plans to launch their long-awaited Falcon Heavy rocket from Historic Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A). The 3-hour launch window extends from 1:30pm-4:30pm EST with a backup window on Wednesday. At liftoff, Falcon Heavy will become the most powerful operational rocket in the world by a factor of 2, being able to lift twice the payload than the Delta IV Heavy. Only the Saturn V rocket, the one that brought astronauts to the Moon, delivered more payload into or
SpaceX's maiden launch of Falcon Heavy remains go for tomorrow afternoon
Tomorrow afternoon at 1:30pm EST, SpaceX plans to launch their long-awaited Falcon Heavy rocket from Historic Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A). The 3-hour launch window extends from 1:30pm-4:30pm EST with a backup window on Wednesday. At liftoff, Falcon Heavy will become the most powerful operational rocket in the world by a factor of 2, being able to lift twice the payload than the Delta IV Heavy. Only the Saturn V rocket, the one that brought astronauts to the Moon, delivered more payload into or
Falcon 9 launches satellite successfully - Unexpectedly lands first stage in water intact
Today at 4:25pm EST, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket took to the skies carrying the GovSat-1 satellite. The Falcon 9 rocket launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida off of Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40). The first stage of the Falcon 9 included recovery hardware, but would not be attempting a recovery. They would follow the regular landing procedures without landing on the droneship and it was planned to fall over into the water and explode due to the highly pressurized tanks rupturing. The first stage
Falcon 9 launches satellite successfully - Unexpectedly lands first stage in water intact
Today at 4:25pm EST, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket took to the skies carrying the GovSat-1 satellite. The Falcon 9 rocket launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida off of Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40). The first stage of the Falcon 9 included recovery hardware, but would not be attempting a recovery. They would follow the regular landing procedures without landing on the droneship and it was planned to fall over into the water and explode due to the highly pressurized tanks rupturing. The first stage
SpaceX will be launching GovSat-1 on a flight-proven booster
Later this afternoon at 4:25pm EST (21:25UTC), SpaceX will launch the GovSat-1 satellite with their Falcon 9 rocket. The Falcon 9 will launch from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) to carry the satellite into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO). The first stage of this Falcon 9 previously supported the NROL-76 mission back in May 2017 and SpaceX will not attempt a recovery of this booster. Still equipped with recovery hardware, we can assume they will still attempt a soft landing in the ocean f
SpaceX will be launching GovSat-1 on a flight-proven booster
Later this afternoon at 4:25pm EST (21:25UTC), SpaceX will launch the GovSat-1 satellite with their Falcon 9 rocket. The Falcon 9 will launch from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) to carry the satellite into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO). The first stage of this Falcon 9 previously supported the NROL-76 mission back in May 2017 and SpaceX will not attempt a recovery of this booster. Still equipped with recovery hardware, we can assume they will still attempt a soft landing in the ocean f
Falcon Heavy fires up its 27 engines for the first time ever!
Today around 12:30pm EST, SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket ignited its 27 Merlin engines for the very first time as a complete launch vehicle. For the static fire, they followed normal launch procedures with the fueling of the 3 cores and the upper stage and then igniting the engines in a staggered pattern to reduce the torque forces on the octowebs. The rocket fired all the engines for around 7-11 seconds and generated quite a bit of steam as the huge plume grew away from the launch pad. Elon Musk
Falcon Heavy fires up its 27 engines for the first time ever!
Today around 12:30pm EST, SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket ignited its 27 Merlin engines for the very first time as a complete launch vehicle. For the static fire, they followed normal launch procedures with the fueling of the 3 cores and the upper stage and then igniting the engines in a staggered pattern to reduce the torque forces on the octowebs. The rocket fired all the engines for around 7-11 seconds and generated quite a bit of steam as the huge plume grew away from the launch pad. Elon Musk
A picture perfect launch of Electron by Rocket Lab
After many scrubs and a delay, Rocket lab launches their Electron rocket into the sky above the Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand. The carbon-composite launch vehicle ignited its 9 Rutherford engines and launched off the pad about 2 seconds after engine ignition. The rocket climbed through the atmosphere and the first stage cutoff and separated about 2.5 minutes after launch. The second stage carried the 3 satellites into Low Earth Orbit. Electron launched an Earth-imaging Dove satellite for Plane
A picture perfect launch of Electron by Rocket Lab
After many scrubs and a delay, Rocket lab launches their Electron rocket into the sky above the Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand. The carbon-composite launch vehicle ignited its 9 Rutherford engines and launched off the pad about 2 seconds after engine ignition. The rocket climbed through the atmosphere and the first stage cutoff and separated about 2.5 minutes after launch. The second stage carried the 3 satellites into Low Earth Orbit. Electron launched an Earth-imaging Dove satellite for Plane
Welcome home, Dragon! SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft returns to Earth after almost a month at the IS
SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft reentered Earth's atmosphere carrying approximately 4,100 pounds of scientific research and hardware for NASA. Dragon successfully splashed down and was recovered in the Pacific Ocean by the SpaceX team a bit off the coast of California. Dragon will be brought back into port and will be transported to their HQ in Hawthrone, CA for unloading of the cargo and inspection of the spacecraft. This was the second time that this Dragon has been flown to space back. Dragon
Welcome home, Dragon! SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft returns to Earth after almost a month at the IS
SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft reentered Earth's atmosphere carrying approximately 4,100 pounds of scientific research and hardware for NASA. Dragon successfully splashed down and was recovered in the Pacific Ocean by the SpaceX team a bit off the coast of California. Dragon will be brought back into port and will be transported to their HQ in Hawthrone, CA for unloading of the cargo and inspection of the spacecraft. This was the second time that this Dragon has been flown to space back. Dragon