SpaceX Faces Weather Challenges Ahead of Starlink Launch

SpaceX is preparing to launch another batch of Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, but weather conditions may present significant challenges. The launch, initially scheduled for Friday, October 18, at 7:31 p.m. EDT, is contingent upon favorable weather, which meteorologists currently predict at a 40 percent chance. A backup opportunity exists on Saturday, October 19, at 7:06 p.m. EDT.

The primary weather concerns revolve around strong onshore winds, projected to range between 19 to 26 miles per hour, as reported by the 45th Weather Squadron. The Squadron noted that, “Strong onshore flow will continue through the weekend as the high pressure across the eastern U.S. will persist,” with additional concerns regarding onshore-moving showers.

The Falcon 9 rocket for this mission has sparked particular interest due to its first stage booster, tail number B1076, which will be flying for the 17th time. This booster has previously supported a variety of missions, including the 26th Commercial Resupply Services mission to the International Space Station, and is expected to land on the droneship ‘Just Read the Instructions’ in the Atlantic Ocean. Should the mission proceed as planned, this will mark the 94th successful landing on this particular droneship.

Spaceflight Now is set to provide live coverage beginning approximately one hour before the designated liftoff time. During this mission, the Falcon 9 will carry 20 Starlink V2 Mini satellites, 13 of which are equipped with Direct to Cell (DTC) capabilities, aiming to expand SpaceX’s DTC satellite count to 259 if successful. These efforts are part of SpaceX’s larger initiative to create a robust internet constellation offering global coverage.

In the broader context, this launch continues a prolific year for Cape Canaveral, which is poised to complete its 71st launch this year, nearing its 2023 record of 72 launches. As space exploration efforts intensify, both SpaceX and other operators at the Cape are diligently working around weather constraints that are characteristic of the region.