SpaceX F9 : Starlink 4-1 : SLC-40 : November 13, 2021 (12:19 UTC)

[Jansen]

Discussion thread for Starlink 4-1
NSF Threads for Starlink 4-1: Discussion

Successful launch November 13, 2021 at 7:19am EST (12:19 UTC) on Falcon 9 (booster 1058-9) from SLC-40. Successful ASDS landing on JRTI. Fairing recovery is expected from the water.

Payload: A batch of 53 Starlink satellites. Expected deployment orbit of approximately 210x340km at 53.2 degree inclination.

SpaceX is targeting Friday, November 12 for a Falcon 9 launch of 53 Starlink satellites to orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The instantaneous launch window is at 7:41 a.m. EST, or 12:41 UTC, and a backup opportunity is available on Saturday, November 13 at 7:19 a.m. EST, or 12:19 UTC.

The booster supporting this mission previously launched Crew Demo-2, ANASIS-11, CRS-21, Transporter-1, and four Starlink missions. Following stage separation, SpaceX will land Falcon 9’s first stage on the Just Read the Instructions droneship, which will be stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. One half of Falcon 9’s fairing previously supported the GPS III-4 mission and a Starlink mission, and the other previously supported another Starlink mission.

Please use the Starlink Discussion Thread for all general discussion on Starlink.

Check the Starlink Index Thread for links to more Starlink information.

L2 SpaceX:
https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?board=60.0

From a previous mission's Press Kit:

Each Starlink satellite weights approximately 260 kg and features a compact, flat-panel design that minimizes volume, allowing for a dense launch stack to take full advantage of Falcon 9’s launch capabilities. With four powerful phased array and two parabolic antennas on each satellite ... At end of their life cycle, the satellites will utilize their on-board propulsion system to deorbit over the course of a few months. In the unlikely event their propulsion system becomes inoperable, the satellites will burn up in Earth’s atmosphere within 1-5 years, significantly less than the hundreds or thousands of years required at higher altitudes. Further, Starlink components are designed for full demisability.

Starlink is targeting service to near global coverage of the populated world by 2021. Additional information on the system can be found at starlink.com.

[Jansen]

0069-EX-ST-2021 Starlink RF Mission 6-2 STA application

0069-EX-ST-2021 Starlink RF Mission 6-2 Grant

[Jansen]

Based on the busy schedule, I don’t expect this launch until mid June.

L28 - 26 May
SXM-8 - 01 June
CRS-22 - 03 June
GPS III SV05 - 17 June

Maybe 15 June from LC-39A

[scr00chy]

The recent SFN article doesn't mention any Starlink launches planned from Florida in June and says the next Starlink will launch from California NET July.

Question is, do we call the first polar launch L29, or something else?

EDIT: Ben Cooper also doesn't mention any upcoming Starlink launches from Florida anymore.

[zubenelgenubi]

The recent SFN article doesn't mention any Starlink launches planned from Florida in June and says the next Starlink will launch from California NET July.

Question is, do we call the first polar launch L29, or something else?

My bold:

But the launch of the 60 newest Starlinks Wednesday [May 26] could be the last dedicated Starlink mission to take off from Florida’s Space Coast, at least for a while. The next Falcon 9 rocket fully loaded with Starlink satellites is scheduled to launch in July from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
<snip>
Once the 60 quarter-ton satellites launched Wednesday [May 26] arrive at their operational altitude of 341 miles (550 kilometers), SpaceX should have more than the 1,584 spacecraft required to to populate the 341-mile-high Starlink shell at an inclination of 53 degrees.
<snip>
Future Starlink launches will deliver satellites to higher-inclination orbits, including two polar shells inclined 97.6 degrees to the equator, a layer in 70-degree inclination orbits, and another group at 53.2 degrees, slightly off-angle from the 53-degree shell that is nearly full.

A SpaceX regulatory filing with the FCC requesting authority to operate rocket telemetry transmitters suggests the company plans six Starlink missions from Vandenberg through January 2022, beginning as soon as July. The one launch per month cadence matches what industry sources have previously told Spaceflight Now.

I'll draw an analogy with atomic physics. In the transition, lanthanide, and actinide elements, physics can load electrons into a d or f shell "out of order" with filling the s or p shells.

Also, SpaceX has a recent habit of announcing Starlink Florida launches on short notice.  An absence of announced Starlink flights, as of May 28, does not preclude June Starlink launches from Florida.

Also, No Earlier Than July is just that, NET. As noted here and in the article, there's no ASDS yet delivered to Long Beach.  A lot can change in a month regarding SpaceX operations, but NET July does not ensure a Vandenberg Starlink launch in July.

Is there any reason why SpaceX would not start launching the Starlinks destined for 53.2 deg inclination orbits from Florida as soon as possible?  Perhaps June 2021?

We'll also have a better idea of SpaceX's Vandenberg plans in the near future if B1051 is also shipped to California, as B1049 was.

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-post:

https://nextspaceflight.com/launches/details/5333

Starlink V1 L29
Launch Time
NET July, 2021
Location
SLC-40 or LC-39A, Florida, USA

"Only" four Falcon 9 launches planned in June!

[Jansen]

(PDF)

Possibly July 12

[Comga]

(PDF)

Possibly July 12

Context:
That launch date is supposedly somewhere in the linked document.
The document, in turn, is a 38 page legal filing by SpaceX’s lawyers arguing against a stay of Starlink launches sought by Viasat. 

[oldAtlas_Eguy]

(PDF)

Possibly July 12

Context:
That launch date is supposedly somewhere in the linked document.
The document, in turn, is a 38 page legal filing by SpaceX’s lawyers arguing against a stay of Starlink launches sought by Viasat.

Based on when the document was prepared it's accuracy about numbers of Starlink launches and when may or likely may not represent reality. The key item in that document which is borne out by the fact that in H1 2021 there have been 13 Starlink launches in 6 months or just barely over 2 a month. That has alway been the SpaceX plan for an average of 2 Starlink launches a month. Meaning that the actual number for any particular month can be a value between 0 and 5.

Plus at the time of the brief preparation there was an FH launch scheduled in July with another launch of something else as well so just 2 Starlinks. Now that those two other launches have moved to later it is possible that more Starlink launches will happen in July and much sooner than July 12th.

[smoliarm]

(PDF)

Possibly July 12

Context:
That launch date is supposedly somewhere in the linked document.
The document, in turn, is a 38 page legal filing by SpaceX’s lawyers arguing against a stay of Starlink launches sought by Viasat.

from this document, page 33, paragraph 10:

The next launch of Starlink satellites is currently scheduled to occur on
July 12, 2021, followed by a scheduled launch on July 30, 2021, and after that
SpaceX has an average of two Starlink launches per month planned for the rest of 2021.

[gongora]

Plus at the time of the brief preparation there was an FH launch scheduled in July with another launch of something else as well so just 2 Starlinks. Now that those two other launches have moved to later it is possible that more Starlink launches will happen in July and much sooner than July 12th.

This is nonsense.  SpaceX knew the FH was slipping long before the brief was prepared.  The lawsuit was just filed this month.

[Jansen]

Plus at the time of the brief preparation there was an FH launch scheduled in July with another launch of something else as well so just 2 Starlinks. Now that those two other launches have moved to later it is possible that more Starlink launches will happen in July and much sooner than July 12th.

This is nonsense.  SpaceX knew the FH was slipping long before the brief was prepared.  The lawsuit was just filed this month.

Brief was filed June 14.

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-posts:

I’m hearing that the Eastern Range is entering a stand down period. Also known as recapitalization, this is so that critical maintenance and upgrade work can be performed on Range assets.

https://spaceflightnow.com/2021/06/30/spacex-rocket-hauls-88-small-satellites-to-orbit/

SpaceX had 26 launches last year, the most in the company’s history. If its near-term launch manifest remains on schedule, SpaceX could reach the 26-launch mark by late August or September.

Looks like SFN is expecting at least 4-5 Starlink launches in the next couple of months.

[oldAtlas_Eguy]

Cross-posts:

I’m hearing that the Eastern Range is entering a stand down period. Also known as recapitalization, this is so that critical maintenance and upgrade work can be performed on Range assets.

https://spaceflightnow.com/2021/06/30/spacex-rocket-hauls-88-small-satellites-to-orbit/

SpaceX had 26 launches last year, the most in the company’s history. If its near-term launch manifest remains on schedule, SpaceX could reach the 26-launch mark by late August or September.

Looks like SFN is expecting at least 4-5 Starlink launches in the next couple of months.

If the range is doing a stand down it is likely only for 2 or 3 weeks at most since the Starliner launch is for the last week of July.

[Thunderscreech]

Possibly this launch?  There's nothing else on the calendar I can find that seems more plausible but maybe I'm missing something.

https://twitter.com/SpaceTfrs/status/1412386511492890624?s=20

[Orbiter]

Looks like it might be for the CRS-22 splashdown. There are two other TFRs off Jacksonville and Daytona at that time too.

[Thunderscreech]

I think you're right, the shaded part of the map that usually maps to a launch TFR fooled me and I should have noticed the actual geometry of the TFR.

That's a capsule recovery RIGHT off the shore of KSC/CCSFS, like almost feet-dry.  Sorry for the confusion, looks like I picked the wrong day to stop drinking acetone.

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-post:

Recapitalization of range assets is underway. It depends on when it will be completed.
The lack of a TFR indicates the 12 July launch is pushed back.

Also, please note that neither the spaceflightnow.com nor the nextspaceflight.com launch schedules include a July Falcon 9 launch from Florida.

However, we all know that Florida Starlink launches may be revealed by TFR's, NOTAM's, etc. only a few days before launch--especially so if there is no Static Fire preceding.

[zubenelgenubi]

Also, please note that neither the spaceflightnow.com nor the nextspaceflight.com launch schedules include a July Falcon 9 launch from Florida.

Cross-post:

http://www.launchphotography.com/Launch_Viewing_Guide.html [updated July 12]

FALCON 9

The next SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral is TBA. Upcoming Falcon 9 launches include Starlink missions. And a Falcon 9 will launch the cargo Dragon CRS-23 resupply mission to the ISS from pad 39A on mid-late August around 5-6am EDT.

[zubenelgenubi]

FYI cross-posts; perhaps circumstantial evidence for a July 31 Starlink launch, as there are no known activities requiring the Eastern range on that date.

We'll see soon if any TFRs or NOTAMs appear that match a KSC or Canaveral launch.

I wonder what range conflict? There's no launches scheduled on the Eastern Range in that time frame.

They said there was a range conflict on July 31, didn't say what it was.

Suggestion of a Starlink launch beginning of August?

If they have to delay from July 30 the next flight opportunity is August 3.

Due to range conflict:
https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/1418336291259785216

If OFT-2 doesn’t launch on July 30, next opportunity would be Aug. 3 because of a range conflict. OFT-2 can also launch and attempt ISS docking even if the Nauka module has not yet arrived.

Edit; cross-post:

I wonder what range conflict? There's no launches scheduled on the Eastern Range in that time frame.

Not all range ops are launches and some are classified.

[zubenelgenubi]

Rules out July 31, probably.  Re: OFT-2 launch windows:

Apparently they cleared the range conflict for July 31 because those two notices were canceled and new notices issued that now include July 31.

[zubenelgenubi]

Next Cape Starlink launch: Mid-August, with no indication of what it will be named/designated.

https://spaceflightnow.com/launch-schedule/  [updated July 27]

NET Aug. 10 • Falcon 9 • Starlink 2-1
Launch time: TBD
Launch site: SLC-4E, Vandenberg Space Force Base, California
...
Mid-August • Falcon 9 • Starlink
Launch time: TBD
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch a group of Starlink internet satellites.
<snip>

[scr00chy]

SFN changed the launch date from mid-August to "TBD".

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-post; no Starlink launches from CCSFS/KSC between now and August 28:

CRS-23 now listed as the next SpaceX Cape launch:
http://www.launchphotography.com/Launch_Viewing_Guide.html [Updated August 10? August 5 in source is outdated.]

The next SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral will launch the CRS-23 Cargo Dragon resupply mission to the ISS from pad 39A on August 28 around 3:30am EDT.

[crandles57]

Per spaceflightnow
https://spaceflightnow.com/launch-schedule/  [updated August 15]

Next florida starlink just says TBD but FWIW placed after a late September launch

(Starlink 2-1 from VSFB says September and TBD.)

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-post:

Some explanation of SpaceX launch hiatus:

I watched Gwynne speak at the Space Warfighting Industry Forum yesterday. 

[…]

Need to get over the chip hump and think they will in October.
Standing down on F9 Starlink launches…waiting on building more sats with newer laser terminals.

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-post; both Tweets posted August 24.
No indication if the next Starlink launch will be from Cape Canaveral or Vandenberg SFB.

https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/1430302841202089984

In a LEO constellation panel at Space Symposium,  Gwynne Shotwell confirmed that SpaceX paused Starlink launches until it can get intersatellite links in place on all future Starlink satellites.  Next Starlink launch now planned in about 3 weeks.

Shotwell says one supply chain issue for SpaceX is a lack of liquid oxygen because of demands to treat COVID-19 patients. Will impact launch plans, she says. #SpaceSymposium

Another thought: Given the temporary transfers of launch campaign staffers from both the Cape and Vandenberg, will the remaining team members have to complete one launch before starting the campaign for the next?

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-post:

SFN, SpaceX test-fires rocket before space station cargo mission, dated August 25

The Starlink launches are scheduled to resume in September from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

There's no statement about the next Cape Canaveral Starlink flight.

[scr00chy]

Spaceflight Now reports "Starlink launches from Florida’s Space Coast are expected to resume as soon as October".

What I'd like to know:

1. Will it be called Starlink 2-2, Starlink 3-1 or something else?
2. Will it be launching to 53.2° or 97.6° inclination?

[realnouns]

Spaceflight Now reports "Starlink launches from Florida’s Space Coast are expected to resume as soon as October".

What I'd like to know:

1. Will it be called Starlink 2-2, Starlink 3-1 or something else?
2. Will it be launching to 53.2° or 97.6° inclination?

Is it possible for Florida Starlink launches to the 70 deg inclination?  Launch last night was 2-1, and next FCC filing for SLC-4E states mission 2-3 (https://fcc.report/ELS/Space-Exploration-Technologies-Corp-SpaceX/1423-EX-ST-2021), skipping 2-2.  Could they alternate launches from both coasts and complete the 70 deg shell faster?  Logistically in space it makes sense for sats to be raising at the same inclination, no?

[gongora]

They have not submitted permits for 70 degree from Florida

[scr00chy]

From the recent Florida Today article:

Falcon 9's next flight, meanwhile, is tentatively planned for no earlier than late September. A batch of Starlink satellites will fly from KSC's pad 39A or the Cape's Launch Complex 40 followed by a booster landing on a drone ship in the Atlantic.

[article dated September 17]

[zubenelgenubi]

From the recent Florida Today article:

Falcon 9's next flight, meanwhile, is tentatively planned for no earlier than late September. A batch of Starlink satellites will fly from KSC's pad 39A or the Cape's Launch Complex 40 followed by a booster landing on a drone ship in the Atlantic.

[article dated September 17]

I will go out on a limb here and deduce this launch is now NET October.

I would love ❤ to be proven wrong. I wonder what the "state of the art" minimum advance notice can be for a Falcon 9 launch?

NOTAM publication?
Launch vehicle erected on the pad/no Static Fire?

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-post:

http://www.launchphotography.com/Launch_Viewing_Guide.html. [dated September 30]

FALCON 9

Upcoming launches include a Falcon 9 from pad 39A carrying the next four astronauts to the International Space Station on the Crew Dragon Crew-3 mission on October 30 at 2:43am EDT. And a Falcon 9 will launch the next batch of Starlink satellites from pad 40 on TBA.

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-post:

http://www.launchphotography.com/Launch_Viewing_Guide.html. [dated September 30]

FALCON 9
<snip>
And a Falcon 9 will launch the next batch of Starlink satellites from pad 40 on TBA.

Are there enough SpaceX employees remaining in Florida for launch campaigns at 2 launch complexes?

Some are working at Boca Chica on the Starship launch campaign.  The launch campaign for Crew-3 is underway.

My hypothesis is there are currently only enough SpaceX employees to handle one launch campaign at a time.

SpX-23           August 29 UTC
Inspiration4  September 16
Crew-3           October 30
CSG-2            November 18
IXPE               December 9
SpX-24          late December
Turksat 5B    late 2021

(Same situation at Vandenberg for the duration.)

Edited

[gongora]

I think the slow flight rate now is from the Starlink model change.  SpaceX has at least 5 non-Starlink flights in December/January from Florida.

[zubenelgenubi]

SpX-23           LC-39A    August 29 UTC
Inspiration4  LC-39A    September 16
Crew-3           LC-39A    October 30
CSG-2                             November 18
IXPE               LC-39A    December 9
SpX-24           LC-39A   late December
Turksat 5B                     late 2021
Edited

Launch Photography, dated October 12; my bold:

FALCON 9

The next SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will carry the next four astronauts to the International Space Station from pad 39A on the Crew Dragon Crew-3 mission on October 30 at 2:43am EDT. Other upcoming launches include Falcon 9 with the next batch of Starlink satellites on TBA. A Falcon 9 will launch the CSG-2/CosmoSkyMed satellite for Italy as early as November 18 at 6:11pm EST. A Falcon 9 from pad 39A will launch NASA's Imaging X-Ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) spacecraft on December 9. And a Falcon 9 from pad 39A will launch the CRS-24 Dragon resupply mission to the ISS in late December, in the middle of the night EST. Other upcoming launches include a Falcon 9 with the Turksat 5B communication satellite in late 2021.

We're approaching the middle of October, with no announcement of the next Florida Starlink launch. 

There is also a lack of launches from SLC-40 after the completion of the Eastern Range maintenance.

The next Starlink launch could be NET November, or even later.

[zubenelgenubi]

We're approaching the middle of October, with no announcement of the next Florida Starlink launch. 

There is also a lack of launches from SLC-40 after the completion of the Eastern Range maintenance.

The next Starlink launch could be NET November, or even later.

I forgot: Given current operations at KSC/CCSFS, are simultaneous pad operations allowed at the adjacent SLC-40 and SLC-41?

Could SpaceX wheel out a Starlink-laden Falcon 9 to SLC-40, but only after Lucy launches from SLC-41?

[soltasto]

We're approaching the middle of October, with no announcement of the next Florida Starlink launch. 

There is also a lack of launches from SLC-40 after the completion of the Eastern Range maintenance.

The next Starlink launch could be NET November, or even later.

I forgot: Given current operations at KSC/CCSFS, are simultaneous pad operations allowed at the adjacent SLC-40 and SLC-41?

Could SpaceX wheel out a Starlink-laden Falcon 9 to SLC-40, but only after Lucy launches from SLC-41?

If Atlas stays under the VIF, yes, unless the rules changed. When AMOS-6 exploded, Atlas V was under the HIF with Osiris Rex already installed. If Atlas is already out there could be issues, but on the other hand I think Atlas has already launched when Falcon 9 was out at the pad.

[crandles57]

"The next SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket" is "CREW3" per
http://www.launchphotography.com/Launch_Viewing_Guide.html

[zubenelgenubi]

SpX-23           LC-39A    August 29 UTC
Inspiration4  LC-39A    September 16
Crew-3           LC-39A    November 9? October 30
IXPE               LC-39A    December 9
CSG-2            SLC-40    December 14 November 18
SpX-24           LC-39A    December 21
Turksat 5B     ??             late 2021

We're approaching the end of October, with no announcement of the next Florida Starlink launch. 

There is also a lack of launches assigned to SLC-40.

My hypotheses:
The next Starlink launch will be NET November, or even later.

The first SLC-40 launch in several months will be the CSG-2 launch.

(Edit November 4: SLC-40 is apparently available all November for a Starlink launch, if SpaceX chooses to do so.)

Edited October 31
Edited November 4

[gongora]

https://twitter.com/EmreKelly/status/1456702986281947146

Surprise! Next SpaceX Starlink launch from Florida now slated for Nov. 12 during a 0616 to 0816 ET window. How this interacts with Crew-2 return / Crew-3 launch ... I don't know.

[gongora]

The hazard area in that tweet shows a launch to the NE, so into the 53.2 degree shell.

[zubenelgenubi]

Launch Photography, updated November 5
Starlink 4-1 launch from SLC-40 November 12, 7:12 am = 1212 UTC

Edit/add cross-post:

[TFR] Timing seems also to match ISS launch windows...on Nov. 11 (UTC)...

SFN coverage today:
No direct handover between Crew-2 and Crew-3.

Crew-3 launch November 11, 0203 UTC = November 10, 9:03 pm EST.

Launch date and time also from November 5 update of Launch Photography Viewing Guide.

Approximately 34 hours between launches.

[zubenelgenubi]

I'm sure there are several NSF pairs of eyes 👀 on this...if SpaceX wishes to Static Fire before launch, the LV could transport to the pad soon.

There would also be beauty shot opportunities of both Falcon pads occupied.

[Ken the Bin]

NGA notices with my estimated launch times:

Primary Day = Friday, November 12 at ~12:16 UTC (~07:16 EST).
Backup Day #1 = Saturday, November 13 at ~11:54 UTC (~06:54 EST).
Backup Day #2 = Sunday, November 14 at ~11:32 UTC (~06:32 EST).
Backup Day #3 = Monday, November 15 at ~11:10 UTC (~06:10 EST).
Backup Day #4 = Tuesday, November 16 at ~10:49 UTC (~05:49 EST).
Backup Day #5 = Wednesday, November 17 at ~10:27 UTC (~05:27 EST).
Backup Day #6 = Thursday, November 18 at ~10:06 UTC (~05:06 EST).
Backup Day #7 = Friday, November 19 at ~09:44 UTC (~04:44 EST).

070438Z NOV 21
NAVAREA IV 1014/21(11,12,26).
WESTERN NORTH ATLANTIC.
FLORIDA.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS, ROCKET LAUNCHING
   121201Z TO 121348Z NOV, ALTERNATE
   131139Z TO 131326Z, 141127Z TO 141314Z,
   151105Z TO 151252Z, 161044Z TO 161231Z,
   171022Z TO 171209Z, 181001Z TO 181148Z AND
   190939Z TO 191126Z NOV IN AREAS BOUND BY:
   A. 28-37-13N 080-36-16W, 29-04-00N 080-03-00W,
      29-00-00N 079-56-00W, 28-35-00N 080-22-00W,
      28-29-10N 080-32-24W.
   B. 31-39-00N 077-20-00W, 33-15-00N 075-57-00W,
      33-45-00N 074-46-00W, 33-27-00N 074-14-00W,
      32-33-00N 074-39-00W, 31-25-00N 077-06-00W.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 191226Z NOV 21.

070452Z NOV 21
HYDROPAC 3187/21(76,83).
SOUTH PACIFIC.
NEW ZEALAND.
CHATHAM ISLANDS
DNC 06.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS, SPACE DEBRIS
   0121256Z TO 121422Z NOV, ALTERNATE
   131234Z TO 131400Z, 141222Z TO 141348Z,
   151200Z TO 151326Z, 161139Z TO 161305Z,
   171117Z TO 171243Z, 181056Z TO 181222Z
   AND 191034Z TO 191200Z NOV IN AREA BOUND BY
   52-31S 164-40E, 51-47S 165-14E,
   48-35S 174-27E, 42-28S 169-40W,
   29-08S 147-18W, 29-00S 145-40W,
   30-45S 145-40W, 37-59S 151-22W,
   48-55S 169-18W, 53-10S 173-48E,
   53-24S 165-25E.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 191300Z NOV 21.

Edit: Fixed my estimated times for Backup Days 6 and 7.

[Orbiter]

It appears the booster is B1062.4, as a fully stacked F9 first (identified as B1062) and second stage was spotted rolling towards SLC-40 a few days ago.

https://www.reddit.com/r/spacex/comments/qoh0ov/i_saw_a_falcon_9_in_transport_at_the_kennedy/

[zubenelgenubi]

It appears the booster is B1062.4, as a fully stacked F9 first (identified as B1062) and second stage was spotted rolling towards SLC-40 a few days ago.

https://www.reddit.com/r/spacex/comments/qoh0ov/i_saw_a_falcon_9_in_transport_at_the_kennedy/

Same LV as from this November 4 tweet?

https://twitter.com/chancebelloise/status/1456273334186831883

An incredibly sooty SpaceX Falcon9 just rolled by LCC. Looks like I took lunch at just the right time.

[lenny97]

It appears the booster is B1062.4, as a fully stacked F9 first (identified as B1062) and second stage was spotted rolling towards SLC-40 a few days ago.

https://www.reddit.com/r/spacex/comments/qoh0ov/i_saw_a_falcon_9_in_transport_at_the_kennedy/

Same LV as from this November 4 tweet?

https://twitter.com/chancebelloise/status/1456273334186831883

An incredibly sooty SpaceX Falcon9 just rolled by LCC. Looks like I took lunch at just the right time.

Yes, it is. 

[Rondaz]

The @SpaceX multi-use support vessel Bob has departed Port Canaveral just now, and is towing droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas (ASOG) to the landing area for the Starlink 4-1 mission on Friday morning.

Fair winds, and following seas, guys and gals!

https://twitter.com/JConcilus/status/1457409334967681025

[Rondaz]

A Shortfall of Gravitas's new tracker working at sea for the first time. Flexed biceps

Hopefully, we will be able to use this to check if ASOG goes autonomous at any point

https://twitter.com/SpaceOffshore/status/1457411213063753731

[realnouns]

https://twitter.com/Raul74Cz/status/1457708359478652932

[StraumliBlight]

Both LaunchPhotography and SpaceFlightNow show the launch time as 12:31 UTC (as of November 7th).

[Ken the Bin]

Both LaunchPhotography and SpaceFlightNow show the launch time as 12:31 UTC (as of November 7th).

I really should have put ~~ on my estimated launch times, rather than just ~.

Using 12:31 as a new anchor, I now have:

Primary Day = Friday, November 12 at ~~12:31 UTC (~~07:31 EST).
Backup Day #1 = Saturday, November 13 at ~~12:09 UTC (~~07:09 EST).
Backup Day #2 = Sunday, November 14 at ~~11:47 UTC (~~06:47 EST).
Backup Day #3 = Monday, November 15 at ~~11:25 UTC (~~06:25 EST).
Backup Day #4 = Tuesday, November 16 at ~~11:04 UTC (~~06:04 EST).
Backup Day #5 = Wednesday, November 17 at ~~10:42 UTC (~~05:42 EST).
Backup Day #6 = Thursday, November 18 at ~~10:21 UTC (~~05:21 EST).
Backup Day #7 = Friday, November 19 at ~~09:59 UTC (~~04:59 EST).

When a weather forecast is issued, that will pretty much nail it down.

[Ken the Bin]

L-3 weather forecast: Friday is 60% 'Go'.  Saturday is 80% 'Go'.  All Additional Risk Criteria are Low except the Booster Recovery Weather for Friday which is Moderate.

Note that the validity period of 12 Nov 2021 / 0701 - 0801L (12/1201 - 1301Z) indicates a launch time of 12:31 UTC (07:31 EST), which is right in the middle of the period.

Edit: Fixed a typo.

[Conexion Espacial]

The Falcon 9 is expected to reach the launch pad sometime today or before noon tomorrow.

[Rondaz]

It seems that the recovery droneships are quite near eachother as Finn and JRTI prep for Crew 3 and Bob and ASOG head out for Starlink. Doug is not far behind on the way for Starlink fairing recovery. Hard to say if ASOG is running solo. I think they are on tow collecting data.

https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1458110593999724549

[lykos]

What stays 4-1 for?  What  does it mean?

[ZachS09]

What stays 4-1 for?  What does it mean?

I think it's mentioning the type of Starlink constellation these sats belong to (Group 4). In this case, it's the 53.2-degree orbit.

The Group 2 (launched before Inspiration4) refers to the 70-degree polar orbit.

[gongora]

https://twitter.com/TSKelso/status/1458154159073488898

CelesTrak has pre-launch SupTLEs for the #Starlink Group 4-1 launch set for Nov 12 at 1240 UTC of 53 satellites from Cape Canaveral. Deployment is set for 12:55:56.740 UTC, just over 15 minutes after launch.

[Josh_from_Canada]

What stays 4-1 for?  What does it mean?

I think it's mentioning the type of Starlink constellation these sats belong to (Group 4). In this case, it's the 53.2-degree orbit.

The Group 2 (launched before Inspiration4) refers to the 70-degree polar orbit.

I'm thinking the Groups refer to this:
Group 1 - 550 km at 53.0°
Group 2 - 570 km at 70.0°
Group 3 - 560 km at 97.6°
Group 4 - 540 km at 53.2°

[Rondaz]

It's busy out in the Atlantic Ocean!

(Which is good Grinning face with smiling eyes)

Back-to-back missions coming up.

https://twitter.com/SpaceOffshore/status/1458187173199597572

[Conexion Espacial]

The Falcon 9 is expected to reach the launch pad sometime today or before noon tomorrow.

A NASA photo from a few minutes ago shows that the rocket has not been brought to the LC-40 launch pad for the Starlink mission.

[russianhalo117]

The Falcon 9 is expected to reach the launch pad sometime today or before noon tomorrow.

A NASA photo from a few minutes ago shows that the rocket has not been brought to the LC-40 launch pad for the Starlink mission.

Unless a still from live video nasa photo releases are frequently behind the timeline to be relevant.

[vaporcobra]

EXIF data shows it was taken a few hours ago. https://images.nasa.gov/details-NHQ202111090009

[zubenelgenubi]

Cross-post.

Is JRTI returning to port?

If so, this Starlink launch will be delayed until either of the East Coast ASDS are available.

It might also explain why 1062.4 has (apparently) not been transported to the pad?

Currently, NSF Fleetcam is not pointing to either LC-39A or SLC-40.

[Edit re: vaporcobra: Perhaps a few days' launch delay for ship's crew relief?]

Some highlights from the Crew-3 Delta LRR Press Conference:
<snip>
- According to Bill Gerstenmaier, SpaceX is switching the recovery drone ship for Crew-3 launch from JRTI to ASOG, due to the fact that JRTI was "beat up" a bit by the weather in the Atlantic while waiting for the launch; ASOG will arrive on station around 6 hours before launch (IIRC)
<snip>

[I edited this while vaporcobra responded.]

[vaporcobra]

Cross-post; any effect on this launch's ASDS recovery?

Some highlights from the Crew-3 Delta LRR Press Conference:
<snip>
- According to Bill Gerstenmaier, SpaceX is switching the recovery drone ship for Crew-3 launch from JRTI to ASOG, due to the fact that JRTI was "beat up" a bit by the weather in the Atlantic while waiting for the launch; ASOG will arrive on station around 6 hours before launch (IIRC)
<snip>

Later comments from Gerst implied that it was more a crew-needs-a-break situation and that it would take longer to tow JRTI back into place than it would for ASOG to switch spots. No mention of the seemingly imminent Starlink launch was a bit odd but I got the feeling that JRTI isn't actually damaged and is still good to go if Starlink 4-1 needs it.

[Ken the Bin]

L-2 weather forecast: Friday is 60% 'Go'.  Saturday is 80% 'Go'.  All Additional Risk Criteria are Low except the Booster Recovery Weather for Friday which is Moderate.

Note that the validity period of 12 Nov 2021 / 0701 - 0801L (12/1201 - 1301Z) has not shifted for a 12:40 UTC launch time.

[ZachS09]

Why only 53 satellites for this launch?

[scr00chy]

Why only 53 satellites for this launch?

The v1.5 sats are probably heavier due to the added laser interlinks.

[wannamoonbase]

Why only 53 satellites for this launch?

The v1.5 sats are probably heavier due to the added laser interlinks.

That would be my bet.  I think the V1.0 birds were going to be the lightest.  Just get up and running.

With Shell 1 done they can add the lasers and maybe other capabilities (capacity)

[ZachS09]

Why only 53 satellites for this launch?

The v1.5 sats are probably heavier due to the added laser interlinks.

How much heavier? The v1.0 sats were 260 kg each.

[vaporcobra]

Why only 53 satellites for this launch?

The v1.5 sats are probably heavier due to the added laser interlinks.

And likely 53 instead of 51 on 2-1 because of the ~5% efficiency gain from launching with Earth's rotation. Also, assuming that SpaceX is still maximizing its utilization of F9 performance to LEO, it helps us baseline Starlink V1.5 mass around 290 kg per satellite - ~15% heavier than V1.0. ~10 kg per laser terminal (I believe there are three per sat) seems reasonable.

[Conexion Espacial]

Falcon 9 vertical on the launch pad

[gongora]

Falcon 9 vertical on the launch pad

Could you please give the source for the picture?

[scr00chy]

Falcon 9 vertical on the launch pad

Could you please give the source for the picture?

https://twitter.com/SpaceflightNow/status/1458533955515342848

[wannamoonbase]

What’s wrong with me that I’m more interested in this Starlink launch than I am in Crew 3?

I think it’s the over production of NASA flights. 

I like SpaceX’s coverage without the 3 hrs of build up. 

Fingers crossed this flight is the start of that fast pace we had in the first half of the year.

[RocketLover0119]

Per the Crew-3 webcast, the vehicle for this mission will be doing a static fire tomorrow.

[alugobi]

I'm with you.  The celebritization of peeps who ride in a craft that flies itself has gone over the top into something approaching satire.  NASA is trying so hard to drum up interest that they might be driving people away. 

More Starlink, please.

[vaporcobra]

What’s wrong with me that I’m more interested in this Starlink launch than I am in Crew 3?

I think it’s the over production of NASA flights. 

A 4K stream (rather than 720p) doesn't hurt either lol.

[zubenelgenubi]

Per the Crew-3 webcast, the vehicle for this mission will be doing a static fire tomorrow.

Do we know approximately when tomorrow (Nov 11)?

[Elthiryel]

If the mission launches on time, it's going to break two records by launching 34h 37m after Crew-3:

1. Shortest time between two SpaceX orbital launches
current record: Starlink-30/Group 2-1 -> Inspiration 4; 44h 07 m

2. Shortest time between two SpaceX orbital launches from the same coast
current record: Starlink-21/V1.0 L20 -> Starlink-22/V1.0 L21; 73h 48m

[scr00chy]

The Falcon 9 first stage engines have ignited for the pre-launch static fire: youtu.be/rCRQ34cVym0

https://twitter.com/SpaceflightNow/status/1458766931490742272

[lenny97]

New L-1 Weather Mission Execution Forecast. Still 60% GO with no additional risks.

[RocketLover0119]

https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1458787128486219781?s=20

[Conexion Espacial]

Falcon 9 vertical on the launch pad

Could you please give the source for the picture?

Sorry for responding late, they shared the image with me but also didn't give me the source.

[gongora]

Falcon 9 vertical on the launch pad

Could you please give the source for the picture?

Sorry for responding late, they shared the image with me but also didn't give me the source.

You should not post pictures here without attribution.

[jacqmans]

I took this photo about 20 minutes ago

[jacqmans]

Rocket was just lowered down..

[mlindner]

Do we have a source on which booster this is? I've seen a few scattered images of boosters on roads but no one has said anything that shows those  boosters on roads were for this launch.

[Josh_from_Canada]

Do we have a source on which booster this is? I've seen a few scattered images of boosters on roads but no one has said anything that shows those  boosters on roads were for this launch.

Based on the amount of soot seen in the shared image, I think it's B1058.

[RocketLover0119]

Do we have a source on which booster this is? I've seen a few scattered images of boosters on roads but no one has said anything that shows those  boosters on roads were for this launch.

It’s B1058. Can see the meatball on the SFN photo

[RocketLover0119]

Rocket was just lowered down..

Do you have a pic?

[mlindner]

Do we have a source on which booster this is? I've seen a few scattered images of boosters on roads but no one has said anything that shows those  boosters on roads were for this launch.

It’s B1058. Can see the meatball on the SFN photo

What SFN photo? It's really annoying when people do this and don't actually link to anything. SFN has dozens of photos of lots of things. Nothing in this thread linked thus far shows the meatball. I specifically asked for a source, not your personal opinion.

Edit: The above was written before the post had a photo.

[mlindner]

Do we have a source on which booster this is? I've seen a few scattered images of boosters on roads but no one has said anything that shows those  boosters on roads were for this launch.

It’s B1058. Can see the meatball on the SFN photo

Thank you for editing your post, however I can't see any meatball in that photo.

[RocketLover0119]

Do we have a source on which booster this is? I've seen a few scattered images of boosters on roads but no one has said anything that shows those  boosters on roads were for this launch.

It’s B1058. Can see the meatball on the SFN photo

Thank you for editing your post, however I can't see any meatball in that photo.

[mlindner]

Do we have a source on which booster this is? I've seen a few scattered images of boosters on roads but no one has said anything that shows those  boosters on roads were for this launch.

It’s B1058. Can see the meatball on the SFN photo

Thank you for editing your post, however I can't see any meatball in that photo.

Even with you circling it I'm not seeing anything there that's even slightly different colored than the surroundings. I think you are seeing things.

[jacqmans]

Rocket was just lowered down..

Do you have a pic?

[SPKirsch]

https://mobile.twitter.com/nextspaceflight/status/1458942978605522946

Falcon 9 went horizontal on SLC-40. No word from SpaceX yet on if that means a delay is in store. Launch of a Starlink batch was scheduled for Friday morning.

[Paul Moir]

Do we have a source on which booster this is? I've seen a few scattered images of boosters on roads but no one has said anything that shows those  boosters on roads were for this launch.

It’s B1058. Can see the meatball on the SFN photo

Thank you for editing your post, however I can't see any meatball in that photo.

Even with you circling it I'm not seeing anything there that's even slightly different colored than the surroundings. I think you are seeing things.

I think RocketLover0119 has some pretty sharp eyes.  At least he's got me seeing something there.  Just a minor photo-enhance of the first picture, the other one is taken from SpaceX's twitter.

[gongora]

If 1058 is this flight then I guess the recently spotted 1062 would be IXPE?

[mlindner]

Do we have a source on which booster this is? I've seen a few scattered images of boosters on roads but no one has said anything that shows those  boosters on roads were for this launch.

It’s B1058. Can see the meatball on the SFN photo

Thank you for editing your post, however I can't see any meatball in that photo.

Even with you circling it I'm not seeing anything there that's even slightly different colored than the surroundings. I think you are seeing things.

I think RocketLover0119 has some pretty sharp eyes.  At least he's got me seeing something there.  Just a minor photo-enhance of the first picture, the other one is taken from SpaceX's twitter.

Those aren't lined up properly.

[RocketLover0119]

Aaaaand we’re back!

https://twitter.com/nextspaceflight/status/1458973777442717699?s=21

[RocketLover0119]

SpaceX site has updated.

B1058 

[soltasto]

captured "Press kit" with OCR

[SPKirsch]

Article:
https://twitter.com/TGMetsFan98/status/1458975667786190851

Starlink launch operations are returning to Cape Canaveral with the Group 4-1 mission at 7:40 AM EST (12:40 UTC) tomorrow.

Falcon 9 B1058-9 will loft 53 satellites from SLC-40.

Article by Mihir Neal (@MihirNeal):
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2021/11/spacex-starlink-cape-canaveral/

[SPKirsch]

https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1458977326243401733

Where in the waters are the SpaceX recovery ships? Doug is bringing ASOG back to Port Canaveral after Crew-3. Finn and JRTI are poised at the north LZ for Starlink launch and Navigator is passing the Keys with Endeavour on board from Crew-2. Phew, that's a lot!

[Conexion Espacial]

Livestream

[ZachS09]

Here's my estimated launch time using T.S. Kelso's tweet of Starlink separation as a reference:

Starlink separation time: 12:55:57 UTC (7:55:57 AM EST)
Mission duration: 15 minutes, 31 seconds

Subtracting the Starlink separation time and mission duration equates to 12:40:26 UTC (7:40:26 AM EST).

[vaporcobra]

Scrubbed due to local and recovery weather, recycling for another attempt tomorrow (Nov 13)

Edit to add:

https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1459130626339061768

[Conexion Espacial]

90% chance of good weather tomorrow

[Conexion Espacial]

Livestream

[Ken the Bin]

Updated NGA notices:

121500Z NOV 21
NAVAREA IV 1029/21(11,12,26).
WESTERN NORTH ATLANTIC.
FLORIDA.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS, ROCKET LAUNCHING
   131139Z TO 131326Z NOV, ALTERNATE
   141127Z TO 141314Z, 151105Z TO 151252Z,
   161044Z TO 161231Z, 171022Z TO 171209Z,
   181001Z TO 181148Z, 190939Z TO 191126Z NOV
   IN AREAS BOUND BY:
   A. 28-37-13N 080-36-16W, 29-04-00N 080-03-00W,
      29-00-00N 079-56-00W, 28-35-00N 080-22-00W,
      28-29-10N 080-32-24W.
   B. 31-39-00N 077-20-00W, 33-15-00N 075-57-00W,
      33-45-00N 074-46-00W, 33-27-00N 074-14-00W,
      32-33-00N 074-39-00W, 31-25-00N 077-06-00W.
2. CANCEL NAVAREA IV 1014/21.
3. CANCEL THIS MSG 191226Z NOV 21.

121641Z NOV 21
HYDROPAC 3268/21(76,83).
SOUTH PACIFIC.
NEW ZEALAND.
CHATHAM ISLANDS
DNC 06.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS, SPACE DEBRIS
   131234Z TO 131400Z NOV, ALTERNATE
   141222Z TO 141348Z, 151200Z TO 151326Z,
   161139Z TO 161305Z, 171117Z TO 171243Z,
   181056Z TO 181222Z, AND 191034Z TO 191200Z
   NOV IN AREA BOUND BY
   52-31S 164-40E, 51-47S 165-14E,
   48-35S 174-27E, 42-28S 169-40W,
   29-08S 147-18W, 29-00S 145-40W,
   30-45S 145-40W, 37-59S 151-22W,
   48-55S 169-18W, 53-10S 173-48E,
   53-24S 165-25E.
2. CANCEL HYDROPAC 3187/21.
3. CANCEL THIS MSG 191300Z NOV 21.

[ZachS09]

https://twitter.com/TSKelso/status/1459198411454889992

Again, using my calculations of both this tweet and the mission duration (15 minute, 31 seconds), the new launch time is 12:18:56 UTC (7:18:56 AM EST).

[Rondaz]

Update: Playalinda Beach says they will be closed for Saturday's 7:19am Falcon 9 launch attempt (they were open Friday).

https://twitter.com/LaunchPhoto/status/1459334985157160962

[soltasto]

Updated "press kit" capture with OCR

[Jarnis]

I thought this was from Cape, what is all this Vandenberg Stealth Launch Complex fog on the stream... 

[RocketLover0119]

SpaceX stream is live!

[RocketLover0119]

Live! What a view!

[RocketLover0119]

Under 5 minutes to launch.

TE retract in progress

[what_the_puck]

Under 2 minutes to launch!

[zubenelgenubi]

Live! What a view!

What are tall buildings in the distance, 1st attached image?

Edit: My 6000th post!

[RocketLover0119]

60 seconds. Go falcon!

[RocketLover0119]

Liftoff!!!

[RocketLover0119]

Staging!

[RocketLover0119]

Stage 1 entry burn.

[RocketLover0119]

Stage 1 has landed!

[TJL]

Live! What a view!

What are tall buildings in the distance, 1st attached image?

LC-40 / 41 integration buildings.

[Rondaz]

Orbital Launch no. 111 of 2021

Starlink G4-1 | SpaceX | Nov 12 | 0740 ET

@SpaceX
 #Falcon9 will launch the 1st batch of #Starlink satellites in the 4th Group (Phase 4) to be operated at 53.2° inclination orbit expanding the network coverage to high latitude regions.

https://twitter.com/SpaceIntellige3/status/1458782360669982726

[zubenelgenubi]

Second stage achieves desired orbit.  Funky SpaceX music 🎶 during ballistic coast to satellites' deploy.

[zubenelgenubi]

Any mention of launch time to the second or microsecond?

[RocketLover0119]

Starlink deploy!

[RocketLover0119]

https://twitter.com/johnkrausphotos/status/1459498487498878979?s=20

[scr00chy]

Any mention of launch time to the second or microsecond?

https://twitter.com/cbs_spacenews/status/1459496222985707521

[LouScheffer]

A note to those who complain that SpaceX gets many more comments on a launch than other providers.  Here is the entire commentary on the launch on this forum:

Liftoff!!!
Staging!
Stage 1 reentry burn.
Stage 1 has landed!
Second stage achieves desired orbit.
Starlink deploy!

A grand total of 116 characters - less than one tweet's worth.   These launches are really becoming routine....

[nalawod]

What isn't routine is the view this morning of a rocket launching from Carnival Mardis Gras docked at the port. Kind of a crappy photo since it's a screen grab from my video. Beautiful morning for a launch and lots of people on the beach watching. This is taken from N 3rd Street Cocoa Beach.

[what_the_puck]

Live! What a view!

What are tall buildings in the distance, 1st attached image?

The building on the right is the Solid Motor Assembly Building, the other one on the left is the Vertical Integration Building.

[what_the_puck]

https://twitter.com/Zshauladventure/status/1459499788672634881
https://twitter.com/baserunner0723/status/1459498600401145859?s=21
https://twitter.com/the_space_nut/status/1459503268065861632

[FutureSpaceTourist]

https://twitter.com/spacex/status/1459518399373922304

Falcon 9's 25th launch of 2021

[SPKirsch]

NSF Tweets:
https://mobile.twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/1459496388711038979
https://mobile.twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/1459497290226405381
https://mobile.twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/1459499866367926275
https://mobile.twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/1459500549611692032

[what_the_puck]

https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1459518399373922304

[wannamoonbase]

Congratulations SpaceX on what appears to be a flawless flight and a return of east coast Starlink flights. 

The rest of the 2021 Manifest looks like it could finish strong. Hopefully there can be 1 or two more Starlink flights before 12/31

[Discussion continues in the manifest discussion thread here: https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=52191.msg2310278#msg2310278]

[SPKirsch]

https://mobile.twitter.com/RDAnglePhoto/status/1459510269558857736
https://mobile.twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1459503063144747032

[JuaniX]

Any mention of launch time to the second or microsecond?

https://twitter.com/cbs_spacenews/status/1459496222985707521

Using that tweet, SpaceX' livestream and my eyes:

12:19:30      Lift-off
12:20:45      MaxQ
12:22:06      MECO
12:22:10      Stage separation
12:22:17      SES-1
12:22:31      Fairing deploy
12:26:16      Entry burn
12:28:07      1st stage landing (~)
12:28:29      SECO-1
12:35:15      Starlinks deploy

In case anyone's interested. Oh, time is UTC.

Edit2: Now they are correctly calculated.

[Rondaz]

Falcon 9 Flight

https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1459588161466740746

[OneSpeed]

Here is a comparison of the Starlink L28 and 4-1 mission telemetry.

1. These missions were to slightly different orbits. L28 flew to 550 x 167km at 53° inclination, and 4-1 to 540 x 215km at 53.2°.

2. Mission 4-1 had a payload of 53 satellites, 7 less than L28, but apart from the insertion altitude at perigee, the profiles are similar, implying a similar, but probably slightly lower total payload mass.

3. Each Starlink v1.0 from L28 has a mass of 260kg, so for the total payload to be the same, the laser equipped Starlink 1.5s from 4-1 would have needed to weigh about 294kg each. Does anyone have a better figure for the Starlink 1.5 mass?

[Elthiryel]

These missions were to slightly different orbits. L28 flew to 550 x 167km at 53° inclination, and 4-1 to 540 x 215km at 53.2°.

According to what I have been able to find, the insertion orbit for Group 4-1 was around 337 x 211 km, while for L28 it was around 282 x 258 km.

Sources:
https://twitter.com/TSKelso/status/1459722955261296640
https://twitter.com/TSKelso/status/1397942109169086465

[OneSpeed]

According to what I have been able to find, the insertion orbit for Group 4-1 was around 337 x 211 km, while for L28 it was around 282 x 258 km.

Thanks, you are correct. I'd forgotten that for L28 there was a second S2 circularisation burn, raising the perigee. The higher insertion for 4-1 probably meant a second S2 burn was not required.

I'd still be interested to know the mass of Starlink 1.5 though.

[zubenelgenubi]

Any news about the fairing recovery?

[Rondaz]

Is there an ETA on the Starlink 4-1 booster return? Or did I miss that update lol?

https://twitter.com/analoguepilot/status/1460035665891151874

Only just leaving LZ ...

https://twitter.com/SpaceOffshore/status/1460036731370151943

[Rondaz]

Crew mission didn't have fairings. Bob is still quite a ways out with the Starlink fairings. Probably traveling with JRTI and Finn.

https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1460061336256270336

[SPKirsch]

https://twitter.com/SpaceOffshore/status/1460372874980737029

JRTI droneship, Bob and Finn Falgout have departed the Starlink LZ and are en-route to Port Canaveral. I think Finn is towing JRTI.

Early arrival estimate Wednesday/Thursday.

[Rondaz]

JRTI droneship and B1058 are progressing towards Florida. Estimating arrival around dawn on Thursday 18th.

Bob is alongside and should have both fairing halves.

https://twitter.com/SpaceOffshore/status/1460732352934645767

[SPKirsch]

https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1461043697131393032

Today marks 23 days at sea for Finn Falgout. The crew departed Port Canaveral to support Crew-3, handled some less than desirable sea states and then supported Starlink. They have JRTI in tow with B1058 and hopefully Bob will have fairings onboard when they all arrive tomorrow.

[Rondaz]

JRTI, B1058 and the support fleet are closing in on Port Canaveral. Should hopefully be setting up for an arrival around dawn tomorrow.

https://twitter.com/SpaceOffshore/status/1461080051328372740

[Rondaz]

B1058-9 has returned to Port Canaveral onboard Just Read the Instructions. I do believe this is the most scorched ninth flight booster I have seen. Join the chat with live views from the @NASASpaceflight Fleetcam.

https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1461326832146518019

[Rondaz]

The port assist tugs are outbound to greet Finn Falgout and JRTI to bring B1058 in for processing. Bob has already returned with both fairing halves. I'm in Port Canaveral and the @NASASpaceflight Fleetcam will have views of arrival.

https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1461317344651882509

[Rondaz]

More views of B1058's arrival to Port Canaveral.

Starlink 4-1 mission wrap-up by @MihirNeal for @NASASpaceflight
 

https://twitter.com/julia_bergeron/status/1461333246277468161

[Rondaz]

Falcon B1058 returns to Port Canaveral after launching the latest batch of Starlink satellites.

This booster has now conducted nine successful missions.

https://twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/1461329470913228811

[SPKirsch]

Screenshot of the arrival of Bob with both fairing halves earlier today:

[Rondaz]

Toasty!!! That is what, nine layers of soot on this booster?

https://twitter.com/EastGlacierMT/status/1461474781010743296

[Rondaz]

9 times flown! 9 times landed! #Falcon9 B1058 has flown astronauts, supplies to the @Space_Station, and hundreds of satellites to orbit! Currently only two @SpaceX boosters have flown more, but I'm sure we'll see B1058 make that 10th flight soon!

https://twitter.com/Zshauladventure/status/1461462541398335488

[Rondaz]

SO SOOTY! B1058-9 has returned to Port Canaveral on  Just Read the Instructions (JRTI)

https://twitter.com/FarryFaz/status/1461352718006505472

[Rondaz]

Can you spot ULA's Rocketship too?

https://twitter.com/SpaceOffshore/status/1461719883759206406

[FutureSpaceTourist]

Worth bumping the thread for this shot (which SpaceX also tweeted a year ago)

https://twitter.com/launchphoto/status/1591793008642379777

OTD 1 year ago, November 13, 2021, truly one of the most amazing launches I've ever shot. Falcon 9 rising out of a ground-level layer of fog. https://www.launchphotography.com/Launch_Photos.html