SpaceX Rocket Launch May Be Visible in Arizona Skies This Week
PHOENIX – Arizona residents may be treated to a breathtaking sight this week as a SpaceX rocket launch is possibly visible in the night sky. The launch, scheduled for[Date-[Date-[Date-[Date-information not provided in source text, needs to be added], will send a Falcon 9 rocket carrying Starlink satellites into orbit and, depending on weather conditions, could be seen across much of the state.
This launch is part of SpaceX’s ongoing effort to expand its Starlink internet constellation, a project that has rapidly transformed access to broadband, notably in rural and underserved areas. SpaceX has been consistently launching satellites since 2019, and launches remain a frequent occurrence from both Florida and California. The company also plays a critical role in space exploration and national security, recently supporting missions like Fram2 in April and the Polaris Dawn crewed mission in September 2024, and securing billions in contracts with NASA and the Department of Defense for launch services.
What is Starlink?
Starlink is a constellation of over 7,000 satellites providing internet service globally. Unlike traditional satellite internet wich relies on a few satellites in geostationary orbit (approximately 22,236 miles above Earth), Starlink utilizes thousands of satellites in low-Earth orbit, around 341 miles up. This lower orbit results in significantly reduced latency – the delay in data transmission – improving performance for activities like streaming, online gaming, and video calls.
Residential Starlink plans currently start at $80 per month.
When and Where to Look
[SpecificlaunchtimeandviewingdetailsforArizona-[SpecificlaunchtimeandviewingdetailsforArizona-[SpecificlaunchtimeandviewingdetailsforArizona-[SpecificlaunchtimeandviewingdetailsforArizona-information not provided in source text, needs to be added]. Generally, the best viewing opportunities occur shortly after sunset or before sunrise. Look towards the[Direction-[Direction-[Direction-[Direction-information not provided in source text, needs to be added]. The rocket’s first stage might potentially be visible as a radiant, moving point of light, potentially leaving a trail as it ascends.
Eric Lagatta is the Space Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com
