SpaceX launched its 11th group of Starlink satellites on Tuesday morning. As of today, the weather has been arranged as a start for launch with the weather cooperating. Currently, the launch is predicted at 70% for go according to the US Air Force. The weather could change that, as there are some fears of rain showers and storms on launch day.
SpaceX is currently expected to launch at 10:31 AM from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40. If there is a delay on Tuesday, there is an 80% chance of a launch scheduled for Wednesday. The rocket is loaded with 58 Starlink communications satellites and a trio of PlanetLab SkySat Earth imaging satellites.
Assuming the launch is successful, SpaceX will have 650 Starlink satellites in low-Earth orbit. The satellites are all primarily designed for internet connection and are meant to eventually make the planet and broadband internet white that serve even the most remote areas. The company has opposed its plan to put tens of thousands of Starlink satellites into orbit.
Scientists and astronomers around the world have complained that the satellites are too bright and the potential to make Earth’s space observations very difficult. SpaceX has tried several methods to make the satellites less bright, including various coatings and visors.
Currently, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has announced that public beta testing in North America could begin later this year for the Starlink broadband service. People worldwide are excited about the prospect of getting broadband, with some areas connected for the first time. Subscribers will need to place a white dish on their homes that is roughly the size of a pizza box to get connected.
