SpaceX readies delayed Starlinks launch
February 3, 2022
By Chris Forrester
SpaceX plans to launch its much-delayed batch of Starlink satellites later today (February 3rd).
A Falcon 9 rocket will loft 49 Starlink broadband satellites into low Earth orbit. The launch, subject to the usual weather considerations is scheduled for 1:13 pm EST, which is the opening of an instantaneous window at Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center.
If teams can’t fly then, a second opportunity will be available at 4:30 p.m. EST. Following the launch, the Falcon 9’s booster will land on its floating barge down-range.
Meanwhile, Starlink has announced a premium subscription price and a new satellite antenna. The device is said to scan twice the sky but at a significantly premium price level. Customers are promised access to 24/7 VIP-level customer service, better performance during outages and unlimited data.
The kit will cope with download speeds of 150-500Mb/s and a latency of 20-40 milliseconds. The company says it will charge $2500 for the equipment and a monthly fee of $500. Deliveries will commence later this year.