Falcon 9 Block 5 | Starlink Group 17-40

This Falcon 9 Block 5 mission by SpaceX is launched from Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA. This communications mission targets Low Earth Orbit. The Falcon rocket family has been instrumental in modern space access, representing decades of engineering refinement in propulsion, guidance systems, and structural design.

Every rocket launch involves precise coordination between the launch vehicle, payload, ground systems, and range safety. The launch window is carefully calculated based on orbital mechanics — for missions targeting the International Space Station, the window may be only seconds long, while interplanetary missions can have windows lasting weeks. Weather conditions, including upper-level winds, lightning risk, and cloud ceiling, are monitored up until the final moments before ignition. Space weather conditions from solar activity can also affect launch decisions, as high radiation levels may pose risks to satellite electronics.

For more launch information, visit the full launch schedule, track the International Space Station where many missions are headed, or browse launch photography in the NASA gallery.