Tony Darnell of deepastronomy.space hosted a Q&A with representatives of Blue Origin, Dynetics and Spacex: Human Landing System: Putting Boots Back on the Moon
Rocket Lab launches "Don't Stop Me Now" [04:43 UTC]
The launch takes place at Mahia Peninsula in New Zealand.
The mission is called Don't Stop Me Now and is a rideshare for National Reconnaissance Office, Royal Australian Air Force and NASA.
In between their launches Rocket Lab is building 2 more launch pads, one in the USA and a second one in New Zealand.
Why it's interesting:
- 12th launch of the Electron rocket by Rocket Lab
- The engines are 3D printed
- Fuel pumps are battery powered.
- The stages are built out of carbon composite material.
- Kiwis in space
Where to watch:
Tim Dodd will be live streaming 30 minutes before launch:
15 minutes before launch:
Or
Check your local time of launch at: www.timeanddate.com
Starlink 8 [09:51 UTC]
SpaceX is launching 60 additional Satellites for their own Starlink Constellation. And three additional earth observation satellites by Planet Lab.
The booster is a Block 5 on its 3rd flight and will land on a drone ship.
The mission to low earth orbit will launch from LC 39A at Kennedy Space Center.
SpaceX will attempt to capture the fairings.
Cargo:
- Payload mass is approximately 18,3 tonnes
- 60 Starlink satellites
- 3 SkySat satellites
Check your local time of launch at: www.timeanddate.com
Where to watch:
Or 15 minutes before launch:
Background information about previous SpaceX launches: Wikipedia
Why SpaceX is Making Starlink - Real Engineering: Youtube
Useful links to stay up to date on launches:
Spaceflightnow.com: Launch Schedule
Everyday Astronaut: Prelaunch Previews
Space News:
NASA Spaceflight nasaspacefight.com
Be aware, this is rocket surgery.
Small disturbances can lead to postponed launches. Making sure everything is just right is way cheaper than risking big fireworks.