SpaceX has adjusted the launch time for its upcoming Falcon 9 rocket mission. The launch will carry four MicroGEO satellites, including UtilitySat and three other satellites, to a geosynchronous transfer orbit.
The satellites are designed by California-based Astranis and will provide connectivity services in various regions. Two of the satellites will serve Anuvu’s aviation and marine customers in North America and the Caribbean, while another satellite named AGILA will provide internet access to remote islands in the Philippines.
UtilitySat is a unique satellite that can adjust its orbital position to support different mission objectives. It was designed by Astranis to provide on-demand connectivity for disaster relief, bridge capacity, and other missions.
The Falcon 9 first stage booster, B1077, will be launching for its 17th time and has previously flown on several notable missions, including Crew-5 and GPS 3 Space Vehicle 06. The rocket is expected to land on the SpaceX droneship “A Shortfall of Gravitas” in the Atlantic Ocean after liftoff.
The launch is set for 12 a.m. EST (0500 UTC) on Friday night, with favorable weather conditions forecast by the 45th Weather Squadron.
Source: https://spaceflightnow.com/2024/12/20/live-coverage-spacex-to-launch-4-astranis-microgeo-satellites-on-falcon-9-rocket-from-cape-canaveral