The Space Coast can look forward to back-to-back Starlink launches this week. After the “jellyfish” forming Starlink launch Friday night, this would be the first rocket launch double-header since late April.
First up on Wednesday, SpaceX appears to have a Starlink launch window running from 10:33 p.m. to 3:04 a.m. Thursday. If conditions are clear, this night launch will be difficult to miss as it lights up the skies over Cape Canaveral.
Less than 24 hours later, a Geospatial Navigational Warning indicates that SpaceX is planning yet another Starlink launch. A launch window runs from 6:45 p.m. until 11:16 p.m. Thursday. While SpaceX normally launches towards the beginning of the launch window, weather at the launch and booster landing sites play a factor in timing.
While SpaceX has yet to confirm the existence of these missions, Geospatial Navigational Warnings show open rocket launch windows for both nights, and the long time periods seen in these windows indicate Starlink launches.
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Both launches will travel in a southeast trajectory, meaning those near Cape Canaveral and areas south will get a view. However, the launch pads that will be used have yet to be confirmed by SpaceX.
The Space Coast almost saw a triple-launch week: NASA officials had stated that Boeing’s Starliner would target a launch of no earlier than 3:09 p.m. EDT on Saturday, May 25. Teams are working to address a helium leak coming from the Starliner service module, which is the disposable lower part of the spacecraft containing engines and thrusters.
However, NASA released a statement on Tuesday, May 21, saying crews will need additional time to address issues and ensure the readiness of the spacecraft. At this time, the launch of Starliner is to be determined.
The FLORIDA TODAY Space Team will continue to bring you the latest at Floridaytoday.com/space.
Brooke Edwards is a Space Reporter for Florida Today. Contact her at bedwards@floridatoday.com or on X: @brookeofstars.