SpaceX Set for Overnight Launch of 28 Starlink Satellites
SpaceX is preparing for an overnight launch aimed at enhancing its Starlink satellite constellation. The Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled to lift off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on July 28, 2024, at 2:42 a.m. EDT (0642 UTC). This mission, designated Starlink 10-52, will deploy an additional 28 V2 Mini satellites, contributing to the growing network of over 8,600 satellites currently in low Earth orbit.
According to renowned astronomer and orbital tracker Jonathan McDowell, this launch marks a continuation of SpaceX’s robust deployment efforts. In 2025 alone, the company has executed more than 125 Falcon 9 launches, with 91 specifically dedicated to expanding the Starlink network.
Launch Preparations and Weather Outlook
The launch is set to take place from Space Launch Complex 40, with live coverage provided by Spaceflight Now starting approximately one hour before liftoff. The 45th Weather Squadron has predicted a favorable weather outlook for the early morning launch window, estimating a 95 percent chance of good conditions. Meteorologists anticipate minimal disruption from cumulus clouds.
Despite the positive forecast for the launch, the weather in the designated landing zone for the Falcon 9 first stage booster, tail number B1095, presents a moderate risk, rated on a scale of low to high. A similar situation occurred during the launch forecast for the Kuiper Falcon 03 mission, which ultimately saw a successful launch and landing.
Booster Recovery and Launch Milestones
This upcoming flight will be the third for booster B1095, which previously supported two Starlink missions earlier this year. SpaceX plans to recover the booster using its drone ship, Just Read the Instructions, positioned to retrieve the booster roughly 8.5 minutes after liftoff. If successful, this mission will mark the 138th landing on this particular vessel, contributing to SpaceX’s impressive record of 519 booster landings to date. This figure hinges on the successful launch of the Tranche 1 Transport Layer C mission for the Space Development Agency, also scheduled for the evening prior.
As the launch approaches, anticipation grows around the continued expansion of the Starlink satellite network, which aims to provide global internet coverage. With SpaceX’s reputation for reliability and innovation, the space community is watching closely as the countdown begins.
