SpaceX to Deploy Model Starlink Satellites on Next Starship Launch in New Year
Upcoming Payload Deployment and Next-Gen Satellites
SpaceX is significantly upping the ante of its Starship test flight program, with the next rocket launch expected to demonstrate payload deployment for the first time. The payload in question will be 10 Starlink ‘simulators’ that will be similar in size and weight to the next-gen satellites SpaceX plans to use Starship to deploy in space.
Key Features of the Payload
- Starlink Simulators: These model spacecraft will travel on the same trajectory as the upper stage, which is also called Starship. They are designed to mimic the behavior of actual Starlink satellites and will provide valuable data for SpaceX’s development process.
- Similarity to Next-Gen Satellites: The Starlink simulators will be similar in size and weight to the next-gen V3 satellites that SpaceX plans to deploy using Starship. This similarity will help SpaceX test and refine its deployment procedures.
The Importance of Payload Deployment
The operational version of these satellites, called V3, will likely be the first real payloads Starship flies. Indeed, bringing Starship online is the linchpin to SpaceX’s plans to more rapidly deploy its Starlink satellite constellation and reduce the costs per satellite launched.
Current State of Starlink Deployments
SpaceX currently launches Starlink using its workhorse Falcon 9 rocket. However, the next-gen V3 satellites are expected to be much heavier than the current V2 Mini spacecraft. Thanks to Starship’s incredible payload capacity, SpaceX has said it plans to deploy 60 V3 satellites per Starship launch.
Benefits of Using Starship for Deploying V3 Satellites
The use of Starship for deploying V3 satellites will add 60 terabits per second of capacity to the Starlink network. Per satellite, this equals out to more than 10 times the downlink and 24 times the uplink capacity compared to the V2 Mini satellites.
Upgrades to Starship for Improved Performance
SpaceX is introducing a slew of upgrades to the rocket, including improvements to the propulsion system, avionics, and heat shield. These upgrades are expected to boost reliability and performance.
Catching the Super Heavy Booster
During this test, SpaceX will also attempt to ‘catch’ the Super Heavy booster, a feat that the company accomplished for the first time during the fifth test in October. This feat is an impressive demonstration of Starship’s capabilities and highlights its potential for future missions.
Conclusion
The upcoming payload deployment and next-gen satellite launches using Starship are significant milestones for SpaceX. The company’s plans to deploy 60 V3 satellites per launch will add a substantial amount of capacity to the Starlink network, making it an exciting development in the space industry.
