SpaceX set to launch 21 Starlink satellites from California early Oct. 21

SpaceX is poised to launch a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 21 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Saturday, October 21, 2023. The launch is scheduled for 3:47 AM EDT (0747 GMT; 12:47 AM local California time).

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The Starlink satellites will be deployed into low Earth orbit, where they will join the growing constellation of Starlink satellites that provide high-speed internet access to users around the world. The Starlink constellation currently consists of over 5,000 satellites, and SpaceX plans to launch thousands more in the coming years.

The Falcon 9 rocket that will be used for the launch is a veteran of several previous missions. The rocket's first stage has flown on 15 previous missions, and the rocket's second stage has flown on two previous missions.

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SpaceX will webcast the launch live on its website and YouTube channel. The webcast is scheduled to begin approximately 15 minutes before liftoff.

The launch of the 21 Starlink satellites is part of SpaceX's ongoing effort to expand the Starlink constellation. The company is currently targeting global coverage by the end of 2023.

In addition to providing high-speed internet access, the Starlink constellation is also being used to provide internet access to remote and underserved areas. SpaceX has partnered with the U.S. government to provide Starlink internet access to schools and libraries in rural areas, and the company is also working with partners to provide Starlink internet access to disaster-stricken areas.