Space Coast to Break Records with 111 Launches in 2024, Dominated by SpaceX
October 16, 2024The Space Coast has seen a remarkable increase in launch frequency, rising from 31 launches in 2021 to a record 72 in 2023.
In 2024, the Space Coast is on track to surpass this record, with projections indicating 70 launches already completed.
Overall, an estimated 111 launches are anticipated in 2024, potentially achieving a near twice-weekly launch rate by the year's end.
SpaceX is set to dominate the launch schedule, responsible for 64 of the 2024 launches, including 62 Falcon 9 and 2 Falcon Heavy missions.
Notable upcoming missions include Axiom Space's Ax-3 crew mission, SpaceX Crew-8, and the inaugural launch of Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket.
A Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled for launch on Thursday, aiming to be the 71st of the year, carrying Starlink satellites with a launch window from 3:55 p.m. to 8:25 p.m.
Recently, the Space Coast celebrated launch No. 69 with the successful deployment of NASA's Europa Clipper spacecraft aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.
The Europa Clipper mission, launched on October 14, 2024, aims to investigate potential life on Jupiter's moon, Europa.
However, some missions have faced significant delays, such as Blue Origin's Mars-bound ESCAPADE mission, now rescheduled for spring 2025.
Looking ahead, significant missions include NASA's Artemis II and III lunar missions, targeting crewed exploration of the Moon by the end of 2025.
The Space Coast is set to host multiple upcoming missions, including Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket and various SpaceX Falcon 9 missions.
Overall, the Space Coast is positioning itself as a major hub for space exploration and commercial launches.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources
Orlando Sentinel • Oct 14, 2024
Space Coast launch scheduleOrlando Sentinel • Oct 15, 2024
Space Coast launch scheduleFlorida Today • Oct 16, 2024
SpaceX targeting Thursday for Space Coast's 71st launch of 2024, one shy of annual record