SpaceX has postponed its Falcon 9 rocket launch originally scheduled for 2:02 a.m. Tuesday, November SpaceX has postponed its Falcon 9 rocket launch, originally scheduled for 2:02 a.m. Tuesday, November 26, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center (KSC). The company rescheduled the Starlink 6-76 mission for 10:05 p.m. Tuesday, with backup windows extending into early Wednesday morning. SpaceX has not explained the reason for the delay.
The mission involves sending Starlink satellites into orbit along a southeasterly trajectory. The Falcon 9’s first-stage booster will attempt to land on a drone ship stationed offshore approximately eight minutes after liftoff. Weather conditions remain highly favorable, with the Space Force’s 45th Weather Squadron predicting over a 95% chance of acceptable conditions for the new launch time.
Updated Launch Timeline
SpaceX provided an updated timeline for the Falcon 9 launch preparation:
- T-minus 38 minutes: The launch director confirms the “go” for propellant loading.
- T-minus 35 minutes: Crews begin loading rocket-grade kerosene and first-stage liquid oxygen.
- T-minus 16 minutes: The team starts second-stage liquid oxygen loading.
- T-minus 7 minutes: The rocket begins engine chill to prepare for ignition.
- T-minus 1 minute: Final prelaunch checks take place, and tanks reach flight pressure.
- T-minus 3 seconds: The engine ignition sequence starts.
- Liftoff: Falcon 9 launches from pad 39A at KSC.
NASA’s Dragonfly Mission to Titan
Earlier on Monday, NASA announced a key update for its upcoming Dragonfly mission, set to explore Saturn’s largest moon, Titan. The agency selected SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rocket to carry the mission, targeting a July 2028 launch from KSC’s pad 39A.
The $256.6 million Dragonfly mission will feature a rotorcraft-lander designed to explore Titan’s unique environment. Scientists aim to study prebiotic chemistry, assess habitability, and search for signs of life on Titan, where conditions could have supported carbon-based or hydrocarbon-based life.
Weather Outlook for Rescheduled Launch
The Space Force’s 45th Weather Squadron has confirmed excellent conditions for both the primary and backup launch windows.
“A high-pressure system over Central Florida will maintain clear skies and light winds,” the forecast noted. “While a few shallow cumulus clouds may appear, no significant weather issues are expected.”
Looking Ahead
SpaceX plans to execute another seamless launch for its Starlink program, further solidifying its 2024 achievements. Stay tuned for updates on tonight’s launch and follow live coverage as the countdown unfolds.
