Falcon 9 Starlink 6-60 Launch: Everything You Need to Know

The Mission

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket is set to launch the Starlink 6-60 mission, carrying 21 Starlink satellites into orbit. The launch is scheduled for March 8, 2023, from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This mission will mark the 60th launch of Starlink satellites, bringing the total number of Starlink satellites in orbit to over 3,600.

The Starlink Mission

Starlink is a constellation of satellites being developed by SpaceX to provide global internet access. The satellites are designed to orbit Earth at an altitude of 550 kilometers, providing high-speed, low-latency internet to users around the world. Starlink is intended to provide internet access to remote and underserved areas, as well as to provide backup internet access for critical infrastructure.

The Falcon 9 Rocket

The Falcon 9 is a reusable rocket designed and manufactured by SpaceX. The rocket consists of two stages: a first stage and a second stage. The first stage is powered by nine Merlin engines and is capable of landing back on Earth after launch. The second stage is powered by a single Merlin engine and is responsible for carrying the payload into orbit.

The Launch

The launch of the Falcon 9 Starlink 6-60 mission is scheduled for March 8, 2023, at 12:22 p.m. EST. The launch will be broadcast live on SpaceX's website and YouTube channel. After liftoff, the Falcon 9 will ascend vertically for approximately two minutes before beginning a turn to the east. The first stage will then separate from the second stage and return to Earth, landing on a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean. The second stage will continue to orbit Earth, carrying the Starlink satellites to their destination.

The Impact of the Mission

The launch of the Falcon 9 Starlink 6-60 mission is a significant event for SpaceX and for the development of global internet access. The mission will bring the total number of Starlink satellites in orbit to over 3,600, bringing the company closer to its goal of providing global internet access. The mission will also help to validate the reusability of the Falcon 9 rocket, which is essential for reducing the cost of space launch.