In the late hours of Friday, July 28, SpaceX made history by successfully launching the Hughes JUPITER 3 mission into a geosynchronous transfer orbit.
The launch, which took place at 11:04 p.m. ET from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, sent the largest satellite ever to a geosynchronous transfer orbit.
The Hughes JUPITER 3, launched by SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy, will also support Xplore’s satellite internet service, aimed at enhancing connectivity in rural areas of Canada.
This mission represents a significant milestone for SpaceX, marking the company’s 50th mission of the year. In addition to this, the launch saw the deployment of 22 Starlink satellites into orbit prior in a separate flight.
Check out the launch replay below:
The Falcon Heavy side boosters, which have previously supported the USSF-44 and USSF-67 missions, were launched and landed for the third time in this mission. The launch and landing of these boosters further showcases SpaceX’s commitment to reusable rocket technology, aimed at reducing space travel costs and making interplanetary trips more sustainable.
As of this launch, SpaceX has achieved a total of 250 launches, 212 successful landings, and 185 re-flights, continuing its impressive track record in space mission successes.
