The SpaceX Falcon Heavy launch that put the first ViaSat-3 broadband satellite into orbit
On May 1, 2023, SpaceX successfully launched the first ViaSat-3 broadband satellite into orbit using its Falcon Heavy rocket. The launch took place at 7:30 pm EDT from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The launch had been delayed several times due to bad weather conditions, which included lightning and tornado warnings. However, the rocket was able to take off successfully and deploy the satellite into orbit about 34 minutes after liftoff.
The ViaSat-3 satellite is part of a constellation of three high-throughput satellites that will provide broadband internet service around the world. The satellite weighs around 6,400 kg and is equipped with a Ka-band antenna array that provides high-speed connectivity to its users.
Falcon Heavy launches @ViasatInc’s ViaSat-3 Americas mission to orbit pic.twitter.com/H87z3rmuBp
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 1, 2023
After separating from the Falcon Heavy rocket, the satellite will use its own propulsion system to move toward geostationary orbit (GEO), where it will join other communication satellites orbiting at the same altitude as the Earth’s rotation. From there, it will provide high-speed internet access to customers around the world. This successful launch marks a significant milestone for SpaceX and the satellite internet industry, as it demonstrates the capabilities of the Falcon Heavy rocket and the potential for satellite-based internet services to bridge the digital divide and provide connectivity to areas that lack traditional infrastructure.
information & Image source: SpaceX
Note: previous information is updated