SpaceX Launch Lights Up California Sky
A stunning display unfolded over Los Angeles as a SpaceX rocket took flight on Sunday evening from Vandenberg Space Force Base on the Santa Barbara County coast. The Falcon 9 rocket, carrying 20 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit, created an impressive scene as its exhaust plume was illuminated by the setting sun against the darkening night sky.
Known for its visibility over vast distances, the rocket and its exhaust plume can be observed for hundreds of miles along the coast under clear skies. Launches conducted just after sunset and before sunrise offer the most spectacular views, with the rocket reflecting the sun’s rays against the backdrop of the darkened sky.
In a remarkable achievement, Hawthorne-based SpaceX achieved 96 successful missions with its Falcon rockets in 2023, surpassing its previous record of 61 orbital launches in 2022. The company’s dedication to innovation and advancement in space technology has propelled it to new heights.
SpaceX’s Starlink constellation of satellites orbits Earth at an altitude of approximately 340 miles, delivered into space by the company’s reliable rockets. This Starlink network is specially designed to provide high-speed internet access to remote locations around the globe, bridging the connectivity gap.
Under optimal light conditions, the satellites form a distinct train as they traverse the night sky, visible shortly after sunset and before sunrise when the sun is below the horizon but the satellites are still illuminated by direct sunlight. To track the best upcoming viewing opportunities, enthusiasts can utilize the FindStarlink tracker, ensuring a memorable experience of observing these technological marvels in orbit.
