SpaceX and ULA Plan Dual Launch to Tie Space Coast Record
This year, SpaceX has led most launches, but it will share the spotlight with United Launch Alliance (ULA) as both prepare two launches that could tie the annual record for orbital missions from the Space Coast.
Launch Details
Both the SpaceX Falcon 9 and the ULA Atlas V are positioned less than two miles apart at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, ready for evening liftoffs.
SpaceX Starlink 6-81 Mission
- Launch from Space Launch Complex 40
- Window: 6:08–10:08 p.m.
- Payload: 29 Starlink satellites
- Booster: Fifth flight of the first stage
- Recovery: Planned landing on the droneship Just Read the Instructions in the Atlantic
ULA ViaSat-3 F2 Mission
- Launch from Space Launch Complex 41
- Window opens at 10:24 p.m. with a 44-minute duration
"While SpaceX has managed the lion's share of launches this year, it's set to be a team effort with United Launch Alliance as the two companies have lined up a pair of launches that would tie the annual record for orbital missions from the Space Coast."
These closely timed launches highlight a rare collaboration between the leading launch providers at Cape Canaveral.
Author's summary: SpaceX and ULA are set for a historic double launch from Cape Canaveral, potentially tying the annual mission record for the Space Coast and showcasing a commanding presence in orbital launches.