SpaceX is going to lose 80% of the last batch of Starlink satellites due to an unexpected solar flare. Starlink Satellites are initially deployed in a lower orbit and then slowly climb to their respective orbits on their own. In the beginning of the raising operation, an unexpected solar strom hit the earth. This leads to a heating of that part of the atmosphere, which leads that part of the atmosphere to expand, which increases drag on the satellites. So much drag that the satellites lost too much altitude during safe-mode that they can not overcome the thicker part of the atmosphere with their ion thrusters. At least 40 Starlinks are expected to re-enter within days.
Ellie in Space with Jonathan McDowell: What should SpaceX do to avoid losing MORE satellites?!
Statment from SpaceX from the 8th of February: spacex.com
The last launch attempts failed for a variety of reasons:
- weather
- radar system not available
- telemetry issue
Main selling points for Astra are:
- rapidly launch
- from everywhere
- rocket, ground equidment and launch pad fit into two shipping cointainers
Astra used to launch from Kodiak Island, Alaska. This will be the first launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
This payload consists of four CubeSats which are destined for a 500 km low-earth orbit.
- BAMA 1 - a 1 m^2 mylar drag sail that is supposed to speed up de-orbit time from 5 years down to 2 months.
- INCA - study neutrons in LEO
- QubeSat - testing a quantum gyroscope in LEO
- R5-S1 - technology demostrator for cheaper build materials for QubeSats
Where to watch:
- NASASpaceflight will be live streaming 60 minutes before launch: LIVE: Astra Launches NASA's ELaNa 41 Mission
Check your local time of launch at: www.timeanddate.com
Scott Manley: Why This Rocket Went Sideways Off The Launch Pad
Scott Manley: Astra's Secret Rocket Project Finally Reveals Itself
The Angry Astronaut: NEW CONTROVERSY!! Astra Space a pipedream? Or the next SpaceX?
Useful links to stay up to date on launches:
Spaceflightnow.com: Launch Schedule
Everyday Astronaut: Prelaunch Previews
Space News:
NASA Spaceflight nasaspacefight.com