SpaceX has successfully launched its first Starlink deployment mission after a recent incident involving a Starlink satellite. This marks the 14th batch of internet-beaming satellites launched by SpaceX, bringing the total to around 800 in low-Earth orbit (LEO). The mission was carried out by a Falcon 9 rocket that lifted off from pad 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
The Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage successfully returned to Earth after the launch, landing on a drone ship named “Just Read the Instructions” located in the Atlantic Ocean. This particular booster, labeled B1060, has previously supported two missions. Its successful landing marks the 63rd recovery of a Falcon 9 first-stage booster by SpaceX. This is part of the company’s strategy to reduce costs and increase launch frequency by reusing rocket hardware.
The Starlink satellites were deployed into orbit around 262 miles (422 kilometres) above Earth, about an hour after launch. Following this, the satellites will use onboard krypton propulsion systems to reach an operational altitude of 341 miles (550 kilometres). The Starlink project aims to provide low-latency, high-speed broadband connectivity across the globe, especially in remote and underserved areas.
The launch comes after a recent incident where a Starlink satellite failed to pressurize its propulsion system prior to a planned burn. This resulted in the loss of the satellite, which subsequently burned up in the Earth’s atmosphere. Investigators concluded that the issue was due to a blocked vent port, which was caused by a masking lacquer that was not fully removed after manufacturing. In response, SpaceX has updated its procedures to prevent a recurrence of this issue.
The next Starlink launch is planned for mid-November. In addition to these launches, SpaceX is also working on a beta testing program for the Starlink service, which currently involves users in the northern United States and southern Canada. The firm aims to expand this testing program to include other parts of the U.S. and Canada by the end of 2020, with near-global coverage planned for 2021.
In addition to providing internet services, the Starlink satellites will also carry out scientific research. SpaceX has started to equip new Starlink satellites with laser inter-satellite links, which will allow the satellites to communicate with each other without the need for ground stations. This technology is expected to improve the performance of the Starlink network, and could also be used for scientific research such as measuring the Earth’s gravitational field.
SpaceX’s Starlink project represents a significant step in space-based internet service provision, and could revolutionize global connectivity. However, it has also faced criticism from astronomers, who have raised concerns about the impact of the satellites on astronomical observations. In response, SpaceX has introduced a number of measures to mitigate these impacts, including making the satellites less reflective.
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