Three Years Ago, Three Boosters Ago

SpaceX's Falcon Heavy Rocket is set to blast off at the Kennedy Space Center at pad 39-A, an ever-evolving launch pad set to debut a super heavy lift rocket called the Starship. What the heck is a Falcon Heavy?! Funny you ask. Since it's been three years since its last launch in 2019, it's not a stupid question. Thats 40 months of memory loss if you're not up to date with the latest in space news.

Big trucks need big tow trucks. Think of this as why the Falcon Heavy has been dormmate for 3 years. The payload mass need by the government for its USSF spy satellites justify the launch hardware needed to use the Falcon Heavy. There hasn't been too many launches with the upmass requirement lately. With upcoming moon missions that will all change.

The launch was originally scheduled for October 31st. However after the static fire test on the 27th, data suggested issues with the vehicle that requires a push to launch on November 1st. There will be two payloads on board. Of course, the secret payload and a micro-sat called TETRA-1. This new satellite is a flagship of prototypes for GEO.

This is launch will occur at the Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island Florida, The best way to view this launch is to purchase tickets for the Banana Creek launch viewing area for a pricey $250 a pop. However this will set you back on watching two of its side boosters landing back on the Landing Zone 1 & 2 pads near the beach. If twin booster landings are your thing, you can head over to Port Canaveral and hit up Jetty Park ($15) to watch the boosters come back at a closer distance. If you find that tickets are sold out, the only way to watch the launch is Max Brewer Bridge located in Titusville FL.

Let's hope for a good morning launch and no scrubs this coming Halloween week! I am a new contributor here at Future Astronaut so it would be great if you would leave your likes and comments on this content and any suggestions you may have,

by Chad @VintageSpace.org 10/30/2022

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