(Update: Launched) SpaceX defers Falcon 9 launch of Starlink mission

SpaceX has rescheduled the Falcon 9 launch of the Starlink mission originally set for Wednesday, May 8, to Thursday, May 9. The mission aims to deploy 20 Starlink satellites, including 13 equipped with Direct to Cell capabilities, into low-Earth orbit.

The mission will launch from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, with the liftoff targeted for 8:20 p.m. PT. Additional backup opportunities are available until 10:18 p.m. PT.

Standing down from tonight's Falcon 9 launch of @Starlink satellites from California, now targeting tomorrow, May 9 → https://t.co/bJFjLCiTbK

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 9, 2024

This mission marks the fourth flight for the first stage booster involved in this Starlink mission, which has a history of three prior launches: USSF-62 and two other Starlink missions. Following the stage separation, the booster is set to make a precision landing on the "Of Course I Still Love You" droneship, strategically positioned in the Pacific Ocean to facilitate recovery.

SpaceX will broadcast the event live on X @SpaceX approximately five minutes before the launch.

Update 1

Falcon 9 launches 20 Starlink satellites to orbit from California, including 13 with Direct to Cell capabilities. This marked the 75th launch of Falcon 9 from pad 4E in California. As planned, the rocket's first stage landed on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship.