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Launch Spotlight: Starlink Group 4-17 – SpaceX launches new batch of Starlink satellites

SpaceX launches a Falcon 9 from LC-39A at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on May 6, 2022, at 5:21 a.m. EDT. This launch carried a new batch of 53 Starlink satellites to a 53.2° inclination orbit.

Launch Overview

Launch Date: May 6, 2022, 5:21 a.m. EDT

Payload: 53 Starlink Satellites

Rocket: SpaceX Falcon 9 (B1058-12)

Launch Pad: LC-39A, Kennedy Space Center, Florida

Destination: Low Earth Orbit

Landing Site: A Shortfall of Gravitas, Atlantic Ocean


The Mission

SpaceX launched a new batch of 53 Starlink satellites to orbit. These satellites are a part of the fourth shell of satellites. This launch will fly into a 53.2° inclination orbit out of Florida.


What is the Falcon 9?

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket is the workhorse of commercial launches into Earth orbit. Nine Merlin engines power the partially reusable rocket on the first stage and a single vacuum optimized Merlin on the second stage. The Falcon 9 has launched a total of 151 times with a 98% success rate, making it a highly trusted vehicle among the commercial, scientific, and defense sectors.


The Booster

B1058-11 will be launching the Starlink Group 4-17 mission. This will be the third 12th flight booster.

B1058 Flight Log

  • SpaceX Crew Dragon Demo 2
  • ANASIS-II
  • Starlink v1.0 L-12
  • CRS-21
  • Transporter-1
  • Starlink v1.0 L-20
  • Starlink v1.0 L-23
  • Starlink v1.0 L-26
  • Starlink Group 4-1
  • Transporter-3
  • Starlink Group 4-8
  • Starlink Group 4-17

The Weather

May 6, 2022

  • >90% GO
  • Primary Concern(s):
    • Cumulus Clouds
  • Risk(s):
    • Upper-Level Wind Shear – Moderate

24-hour Delay

  • 80% GO
  • Primary Concern(s):
    • Cumulus Clouds
    • Thick Clouds
  • Risk(s):
    • Booster Recovery Weather – Moderate

Last Updated: May 5, 4:15 p.m. EDT


Where to watch?

You can find coverage of Wednesday’s launch on SpaceX’s YouTube channel. The live stream will usually go live about 15 minutes before liftoff and will offer the best views of the launch.

Featured Image: Starlink Group 4-17 – SpaceX

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