SpaceX to Launch Next ISS Crew Rotation, Along with Electron’s Debris Removal Demonstration: Launch Roundup
SpaceX Sets New Records with 10 Launches in January, Despite Weather Delays
Despite multiple delays and weather violations, SpaceX achieved a new record in January by successfully launching and landing 10 rockets in a single month. However, the company is facing ongoing weather challenges and logistical issues that may prevent it from repeating this feat by the end of February. SpaceX’s ambitious launch schedule includes missions for Intuitive Machines, PACE satellite, USSF-124, and an upcoming crewed mission.
SpaceX Hits Milestones with Falcon 9’s 300th Mission and 200th Successful Landing
While facing these challenges, SpaceX continues to reach significant milestones. On February 15, the Falcon 9 rocket completed its 300th mission with the launch of the Intuitive Machines IM-1 mission. Additionally, booster B1082 successfully landed, marking SpaceX’s 200th successful landing since its last failed one during the Starlink Group 7-14 mission.
SpaceX Almost Launches Three Falcon 9 Rockets within Eight Hours
In a busy evening on February 14, SpaceX nearly achieved the impressive feat of launching a Falcon 9 rocket from each of its three key launch pads within an eight-hour timeframe. However, the initial attempt for the Starlink Group 7-14 mission was scrubbed while on the pad.
Exciting Non-Starlink Missions Planned
In the coming weeks, SpaceX has two non-Starlink missions planned from the east coast. One of the most anticipated missions is SpaceX’s eighth crew rotation mission to the International Space Station (ISS), which will include Commander Matthew Dominick, Pilot Michael Barratt, and Mission Specialists Jeanette Epps and Cosmonaut Alexander Grebenkin. During their stay on the ISS, the crew will witness cargo arrivals from Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus, SpaceX’s Cargo Dragon, and Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser spaceplane.
Indonesia’s Communication Satellite and Rocket Lab’s Debris Removal Mission
This week, SpaceX will launch a new high-throughput communication satellite for Indonesia. The satellite, with a 15-year expected lifespan, will strengthen the communications infrastructure across the Indonesian archipelago. Additionally, Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket is scheduled to launch Astroscale’s ADRAS-J demonstration mission, which aims to remove large-scale space debris from low-Earth orbit. The mission’s first phase involves approaching and observing an unresponsive object in orbit, collecting data to demonstrate the capability to maintain a fixed position close by.
ISRO’s GSLV Rocket to Launch INSAT-3DS Weather Research Satellite
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its first Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) rocket since May 2023. The rocket will deliver the successor to the INSAT-3DR weather research satellite, providing meteorological and disaster warning services to India from a geostationary orbit. The new satellite, INSAT-3DS, features a six-channel imager and a 19-channel sounder.
SpaceX Continues Starlink Deployment
On February 15, SpaceX launched another batch of 22 Starlink satellites, expanding the company’s internet coverage worldwide. The launch took place from Space Launch Complex (SLC) 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Rocket Lab’s ‘On Closer Inspection’ Mission for Debris Removal
Rocket Lab will launch the ‘On Closer Inspection’ mission, aimed at advancing the removal of large-scale space debris from low-Earth orbit. The mission will involve approaching and inspecting an uncommunicative piece of space debris before determining its spin rate and axis. This mission will inform and support other debris removal initiatives, including Astroscale’s End-of-Life Services and Clearing Outer Space Mission through Innovative Capture missions.
TelkomSat HTS-113BT Satellite to Strengthen Communications in Indonesia
SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket will launch the TelkomSat HTS-113BT communications satellite for PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia. The satellite, built by Thales Alenia Space, will enhance the telecommunications structure across the Indonesian archipelago, providing high-throughput communication capabilities.
Upcoming Starlink and Crewed Missions
On February 20, SpaceX will launch another batch of Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base. Additionally, SpaceX is preparing for the eighth crew rotation mission to the ISS on March 1, carrying a team of astronauts who will stay on the ISS and witness various cargo arrivals during their stay.
Overall, despite weather challenges and logistical issues, SpaceX continues to push boundaries and achieve new milestones in rocket launches and landings. The company’s ambitious launch schedule includes missions to deliver communication satellites, remove space debris, and support crew rotations to the International Space Station. With each successful mission, SpaceX solidifies its position as a leading player in the space industry.
