SpaceX cancels Starlink satellite launch 16 seconds before liftoff due to risk of losing first stage of Falcon 9 rocket
SpaceX failed to send a new batch of Starlink satellites into space. With 16 seconds to go, the decision was made to cancel the launch. The mission was rescheduled for April 27.
Here's What We Know
SpaceX was preparing to launch a Falcon 9 rocket with another batch of Starlink spacecraft. The launch was scheduled for April 26 at 10:40 (EDT) or 07:40 (PDT). A company spokesman said the launch cancellation was dictated by the risk of losing the first stage of the Falcon 9 rocket due to a failed landing.
Stand down from today's Falcon 9 launch of Starlink; vehicle remains healthy. Backup opportunity is available Thursday, April 27 at the same time
- SpaceX (@SpaceX) April 26, 2023
The canceled mission would have been the 13th mission for this first stage. It had previously been used not only to launch Starlink satellites but also in two missions to send National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) astronauts into space.
