SpaceX Launches GPS III Satellite for U.S. Space Force – Watch Replay
Just hours ago, at 6:24pm EST, SpaceX launched a Satellite for the United States Space Force. The Falcon 9 launch was a second attempt from a previously postponed launch attempt on October 2.
Watch the video replay of the launch further down in the article.
During that launch attempt, automated systems aborted the launch with just seconds to go in the count. The issue was with 2 of the 9 merlin engines on Falcon 9.
There were some clogged vents in valves in the two engines which. This was from lacquer that was used to protect some sensitive engine parts while they were receiving an anti-corrosion treatment.
SpaceX has since identified the issue and made corrections to prevent it from occurring in the future.
With 2 replacement engines, tonight’s Falcon 9 blasted off from Pad 40 into the clear night sky on Florida’s Space Coast. With the clear air, the view of the launch was easily visible from 50 miles away in the Orlando area.
Watch a replay of the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch GPS III-SV04 mission:
AS can be seen in the video replay, the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch was spectacular. All systems performed perfectly through all phases, including the landing of stage one on the recovery drone ship.
The SpaceX GPS III-SV04 mission carried an advanced GPS satellite into orbit for the U.S. Space Force. It is the third such satellite launched by SpaceX.
When complete, there will be 10 of these advanced GPS satellites in place high above the Earth. These have been designed to replace the older constellation of satellites in use by the military.
Onboard, these satellites have upgraded hardware and software which allows them to transmit higher-power signals. This makes it less likely that foreign agencies can jam the signals.
About the Author
