SpaceX is gearing up for an exciting launch that marks a significant milestone in its ongoing mission to expand global internet coverage. On Friday, the company will execute the 490th launch of its Falcon 9 rocket, deploying a batch of 23 Starlink V2 Mini satellites into low Earth orbit. Named Starlink 12-26, this mission is set to take place at Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Liftoff is scheduled for 11:29 a.m. EDT (1529 UTC), and Spaceflight Now will provide live coverage starting approximately one hour before the launch.
As anticipation builds, the weather looks promising for the launch, with the 45th Weather Squadron predicting an 85% chance of favorable conditions at the opening of the four-hour launch window, which begins at 7:45 a.m. EDT (1145 UTC). However, as the window progresses, the forecast does indicate a drop to a 60% chance of favorable weather. Launch weather officers have observed that the Atlantic ridge will remain to the north of Central Florida throughout the week, contributing to a low-level onshore flow, which is key for maintaining good weather conditions.
The Falcon 9 rocket set to carry the Starlink satellites features booster B1078, marking its 21st flight. This booster has a rich history, having previously participated in various missions, including NASA’s Crew-6 and ASTSpaceMobile’s Bluebird 1-5. After a successful launch, the booster will aim to land on the droneship named ‘A Shortfall of Gravitas’ approximately eight minutes after liftoff. If all goes as planned, this will mark the 113th successful touchdown on this particular vessel, adding to SpaceX’s impressive record of 462 booster landings to date.
The payload includes 23 Starlink V2 Mini satellites, out of which 13 are equipped with direct-to-cell capabilities. This allows them to offer more robust internet services, reaching underserved areas and improving connectivity for a wider audience. To date, SpaceX has launched a total of 661 direct-to-cell Starlink satellites, with 273 of these being sent to low Earth orbit so far in 2025 alone.
The launch of these satellites underscores SpaceX’s commitment to enhancing global internet accessibility. Starlink is aimed at providing scalable solutions to underserved regions, making it an essential part of the company’s overarching mission. As a leader in the rapidly evolving field of satellite communications, SpaceX is increasingly focused on making high-speed internet accessible to remote and rural communities that might otherwise be left out of the digital revolution.
Over the years, Starlink has transformed the satellite internet landscape, offering speeds and connectivity levels rivaling traditional broadband services. The introduction of V2 Mini satellites brings even more advanced technology into play, demonstrating the company’s dedication to ongoing innovation. The capacity to directly connect to mobile devices not only enhances user experience but also serves as a crucial step in creating a truly global internet network.
As we watch the launch unfold, it’s important to recognize the impact that SpaceX’s continued advancements in space technology will have, not just on communications, but also on socioeconomic developments worldwide. The implications of reliable internet access cannot be overstated. By improving connectivity, these Starlink satellites will help bridge educational gaps, promote telehealth solutions, and enable remote work opportunities, ultimately empowering communities and individuals.
In summary, the upcoming launch of the 23 Starlink V2 Mini satellites aboard the Falcon 9 rocket is an important chapter in SpaceX’s ambitious agenda. With favorable weather expected, an experienced booster on hand, and innovative technology onboard, this mission is set to propel us further into a future where global internet access is the norm rather than the exception.
As we await the countdown and countdown to 11:29 a.m. EDT, the opportunity to witness another of SpaceX’s remarkable achievements is just on the horizon. Whether you are a space enthusiast, a tech-savvy individual, or simply curious about the future of internet connectivity, this launch promises to be an event of significant interest. Stay tuned for live coverage and prepare to witness the next step toward a more connected world.
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