SpaceX is preparing for a launch from Cape Canaveral on Thursday, just days after completing a historic doubleheader that saw two rockets launched in a single day for the first time in Brevard County. The doubleheader occurred on May 27, with the first launch sending a Falcon 9 rocket carrying a Starlink satellite payload into orbit, followed by a second mission later that same day. Both launches took place from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.
The doubleheader broke a long-standing record for SpaceX, which typically schedules launches weeks apart to allow for hardware and personnel recovery. The back-to-back missions were made possible by streamlined operations and a surge in demand for Starlink satellites, which SpaceX has been deploying to expand global broadband coverage. The first launch of the day lifted off at 1:14 p.m. EDT, while the second occurred just over six hours later at 7:21 p.m. EDT.
The upcoming Thursday launch, scheduled for 2:45 p.m. EDT from Launch Complex 39A, is expected to carry another Starlink payload. The mission will be the 10th Starlink launch of 2023 and the 122nd overall for the program. SpaceX has not disclosed specific details about the payload, but the company has stated that the satellites will support its goal of providing internet access to underserved regions.
Local officials have praised the increased activity at the Space Coast, noting the economic and technological benefits. Brevard County Commissioner Wayne Williams said the doubleheader demonstrated the region’s critical role in the space industry. ‘This is a testament to the hard work of our community and the resilience of our infrastructure,’ he said in a statement.
SpaceX has not yet confirmed if additional doubleheaders are planned, but the company has indicated a focus on accelerating Starlink deployments. With the next launch set for Thursday, residents and space enthusiasts along the Space Coast are bracing for another day of high-stakes rocket science.