SpaceX is gearing up for an exciting event as it prepares to launch its latest batch of Starlink V2 Mini satellites into low Earth orbit. This significant mission, designated as Starlink 6-72, is set to take place on Saturday night, April 5, at 10:40 p.m. EDT (0240 UTC). The launch will occur from pad 40 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, marking yet another milestone in SpaceX's ongoing efforts to expand its satellite internet constellation.
For those eager to watch the event, Spaceflight Now will provide live coverage starting approximately one hour before liftoff. Viewers can expect to see the Falcon 9 rocket in action as it embarks on this crucial mission. According to the 45th Weather Squadron, the launch site will experience clear skies with windy conditions during the nearly four-hour launch window. Meteorologists predict over a 95 percent chance of favorable weather conditions at the time of liftoff, which is excellent news for the mission's success.
The launch weather officers noted, “A high-pressure ridge over the Atlantic extending across central Florida will persist through the weekend, bringing strong subsidence across the peninsula.” They added that moisture levels will be low, reducing the likelihood of significant cloud cover. However, they cautioned that liftoff winds could pose a potential constraint on both days of the launch window.
The Falcon 9 rocket utilized for this mission features a first stage booster, tail number B1078, which will make its 19th flight. This booster has a commendable track record, having previously supported various missions, including Crew-6, USSF-124, and 14 earlier Starlink launches. A little over eight minutes post-liftoff, booster B1078 will aim for a landing on the droneship named ‘Just Read the Instructions.’ If this landing is successful, it will mark the 114th booster landing for JRTI and the impressive 427th booster landing overall for SpaceX.
The upcoming launch of the Starlink V2 Mini satellites represents a significant step in enhancing global internet connectivity. With a high probability of favorable weather and a proven rocket booster, SpaceX is poised for another successful mission. Stay tuned for live coverage and updates as the countdown to liftoff approaches.
