SpaceX recently completed the first of two planned Falcon 9 launches, deploying a pair of Maxar Space Systems’ WorldView Legion satellites. The liftoff took place at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The booster used for this mission, B1061, made its 20th launch and successfully landed back at Landing Zone 4 after 8.5 minutes. SpaceX is working towards certifying its Falcon boosters for up to 40 missions each.
The WorldView Legion satellites are the first two of a series of six, which will provide enhanced Earth observation capabilities. These satellites, built on the Maxar 500 series platform, can revisit a location up to 15 times a day. Maxar’s technology also supports national security efforts and offers Vessel Detection Services.
In addition to launching the satellites, SpaceX also undertook the relocation of its Crew Dragon spacecraft on the International Space Station and prepared for the Starlink 6-55 mission from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This demonstrates SpaceX’s ongoing efforts in space exploration and satellite deployment.
Vocabulary List:
- Deployment (noun): The act of sending somethingsuch as troops or equipmentto a particular place.
- Booster (noun): A component used to enhance the launch of a rocket or missile.
- Certifying (verb): Officially affirming or attesting to something.
- Observation (noun): The action or process of closely monitoring or watching something.
- Relocation (noun): The act of moving to a new place.
- Undertook (verb): To take on or commit oneself to fulfill.
