A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is set to launch 28 V2 Mini Starlink satellites from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on March 11, 2024. This mission, designated as Starlink 11-21, is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its satellite internet constellation. The launch is scheduled for 2:12 p.m. PDT (5:12 p.m. EDT / 2112 UTC).
This will be a significant milestone for SpaceX, as an on-time liftoff would mark the fastest turnaround for its West Coast launch pad. The rocket will be deployed just under 55 hours after the completion of the Starlink 11-12 mission on March 9, 2024. SpaceX has already set multiple turnaround records this month across its launch sites.
Details of the Launch
The Falcon 9 rocket for this mission, with booster tail number B1082, is preparing for its 17th flight. This mission follows a series of successful launches, including USSF-62, NROL-145, and OneWeb Launch 20, as well as 13 previous batches of Starlink satellites.
Approximately 8.5 minutes after liftoff, the B1082 booster will attempt an autonomous landing on the drone ship named ‘Of Course I Still Love You.’ If successful, this will be the 161st landing on this particular vessel and the 525th overall booster landing for SpaceX. This mission will also contribute to the total of 98 launches supporting the Starlink constellation in 2024.
SpaceX’s rapid deployment of satellites is part of a broader strategy to enhance global internet coverage, especially in remote and underserved areas. The Starlink program has generated significant interest and investment, as it aims to provide high-speed internet access to users across the globe.
Live coverage of the launch will be available through Spaceflight Now, starting approximately 30 minutes before the scheduled liftoff. As SpaceX continues to innovate and accelerate its launch cadence, the space industry watches closely for the implications of these advancements in satellite technology and connectivity.