SpaceX had to cancel the planned launch of four MicroGEO satellites for California-based Astranis, after encountering a mid-ignition issue during preparations. The launch, scheduled to place the satellites into geosynchronous transfer orbit, was postponed to Sunday, Dec. 22.
Although the specific cause of the scrub was not disclosed, SpaceX confirmed the delay and announced a new launch window for Sunday at 12 a.m. EST (0500 UTC). The mission, named ‘Astranis: From One to Many,’ includes a diverse payload, such as the UtilitySat, a satellite designed to reposition within geostationary Earth orbit for various mission requirements.
The launch was initially scheduled from pad 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, with a high probability of favorable weather conditions according to the 45th Weather Squadron, who forecasted more than 95 percent chance of suitable weather for the original launch. The scrubbed launch is now expected to benefit from similar favorable weather on Sunday, with a slight risk of violating the Cumulus Cloud Rule.
The Falcon 9 rocket, featuring the first stage booster B1077, was set to carry out its 17th flight. After lifting off, the booster would have attempted to land on SpaceX’s droneship, “A Shortfall of Gravitas,” positioned in the Atlantic Ocean.
The four satellites onboard, each about the size of a washing machine, were developed by Astranis at their Pier 70 facility in San Francisco. These satellites are expected to provide broadband services for a variety of customers over the next eight to ten years.
Among the payloads, the NuView Alpha and NuView Bravo satellites are dedicated to serving aviation and marine customers across North America and the Caribbean under a partnership with Anuvu. UtilitySat, another key satellite, is designed to provide flexible, repositionable broadband services in regions like Mexico, where internet access is limited, especially in rural areas.
Additionally, the AGILA satellite will offer connectivity to the Philippines, aiming to serve the nation’s remote islands and boost economic growth. Astranis CEO John Gedmark highlighted that the satellite would connect millions of people who currently lack reliable internet access, potentially creating thousands of jobs and contributing to the country’s development.
With this mission, SpaceX and Astranis aim to improve connectivity in underserved regions, bringing satellite internet to areas with limited access to traditional infrastructure.
