SpaceX is gearing up for an exciting day this Sunday, with plans to launch two Falcon 9 rockets back-to-back from both California and Florida. The first mission, known as Starlink 11-9, will take place at Vandenberg Space Force Base, while the second mission, Starlink 12-23, is scheduled for liftoff from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This ambitious launch schedule highlights SpaceX's commitment to expanding its Starlink satellite internet constellation.
The Starlink 12-23 mission is set to lift off from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral, targeting a launch window at 10:58 p.m. EDT (0258 UTC). This launch will mark the 49th Falcon 9 launch of 2025, a testament to SpaceX's rapid progress in space operations. For those interested in following the launch live, Spaceflight Now will provide comprehensive coverage starting about an hour before liftoff.
The 45th Weather Squadron has predicted a favorable weather outlook, reporting a 90 percent chance of acceptable conditions for the launch. However, they noted some potential weather challenges due to the presence of cumulus clouds and anvil clouds. Meteorologists indicated that, “By late Sunday, a front approaching from the northwest will siphon moisture ahead of the boundary, with a few seabreeze-induced showers possible, especially northwest of the Spaceport.”
They also warned that the moist onshore flow near the boundary, combined with likely seabreeze interactions, could lead to scattered showers and possibly a few thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening across central Florida.
The Falcon 9 first stage booster designated for the Starlink 12-23 mission, tail number B1077, will be launching for its 20th time. This booster has an impressive track record, having previously supported 12 batches of Starlink satellites, three missions to the International Space Station, and the GPS 3 Space Vehicle 06 mission. After liftoff, B1077 is scheduled to land on the SpaceX droneship, 'Just Read the Instructions', located in the Atlantic Ocean, east of The Bahamas.
If the landing is successful, it will mark the 117th booster landing on JRTI and the 438th booster landing overall for SpaceX, further solidifying the company’s leadership in reusable rocket technology.
In addition to the Cape Canaveral launch, SpaceX is also preparing for another Falcon 9 rocket launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base on the same night. This particular mission, Starlink 11-9, aims to deploy 27 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit. These launches represent a significant step in enhancing global internet coverage as part of SpaceX’s ongoing efforts to provide high-speed internet access to underserved areas.
Stay tuned for updates as SpaceX embarks on this remarkable launch day, showcasing the future of space technology and satellite deployment.
