X Report 21 Dec 2024

🚀 Latest Developments

SpaceX is on the brink of launching the Bandwagon-2 rideshare mission from Vandenberg, aiming to deploy 30 satellites into a mid-inclination orbit. The FAA has updated licenses for the upcoming Starship flight, enabling a launch potentially in early 2024. Meanwhile, a Crew Dragon mission is postponed by a month due to delays in spacecraft readiness.

📰 Detailed Coverage

Liftoff Approaching: SpaceX’s Bandwagon-2 Mission

SpaceX is set to execute the Bandwagon-2 rideshare mission on Dec. 21st, carrying 30 customer satellites to a mid-inclination orbit. The Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg is scheduled for early morning, emphasizing SpaceX’s capability in handling multiple satellite deployments effectively.

This mission showcases SpaceX’s proven expertise in rideshare operations, offering significant benefits to various satellite operators. Users interested in satellite tracking can observe the new deployments in real time.

Read the full story: Space.com

Starship Progress: FAA Authorizes Next Flight

The Federal Aviation Administration has granted an updated license for SpaceX’s next Starship flight, paving the way for its launch likely in the first half of 2024. This update signals progress amid SpaceX’s ongoing developments and regulatory compliance efforts.

The revised licensing demonstrates the continued interaction between SpaceX’s technical advances and regulatory processes, crucial for future interplanetary missions. This development marks another step toward achieving higher ambitions in space exploration.

Read the full story: SpaceNews

Crew Dragon Mission Delay

Delays in completing a new Crew Dragon spacecraft will extend the International Space Station stay for current astronauts by a month. The setbacks underscore the meticulous nature of human spaceflight preparations and the push for system readiness.

While the delay shifts timelines, it ensures optimal safety and functionality of SpaceX’s Crew Dragon fleet, essential for maintaining its reputation in human spaceflight services.

Read the full story: SpaceNews

📊 Starlink Status

Total Launched: 7568
Total On Orbit: 6886
Total Working: 6839

Track Starlink satellites in real-time on our web app: Track Starlink

B1049

B1049 is a retired Falcon 9 first stage booster who completed 10 successful orbital missions between 2018-2022. Known for exceptional fuel efficiency (4.72% above fleet average), B1049 has landed on both drone ships and landing zones, achieving a perfect touchdown record despite COMPLETELY UNRELIABLE weather predictions.