Telemetry of the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket at liftoff on July 11, 2024. [Screenshot/ SpaceX]
Key Takeaways:
SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket experienced a rare malfunction—its first in nearly a decade—during a Starlink satellite launch.
The second-stage engine failed to complete its second burn, deploying the Starlink satellites into a lower-than-intended orbit.
SpaceX is attempting to raise the orbit of the affected satellites using their ion thrusters, despite uncertainty regarding the success of this measure.
The Starlink satellites are designed to burn up safely upon reentry, posing no risk to people on the ground.
For the first time in nearly a decade, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket experienced a malfunction while attempting to deliver a batch of internet satellites into orbit on Thursday night.
The launch, occurring around 10:30 p.m. PDT at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, is a rare mishap for SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, which routinely flies NASA astronauts to orbit.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
Amelia Walsh is a private pilot who enjoys flying her family’s Columbia 350. She is based in Colorado and loves all things outdoors including skiing, hiking, and camping.
