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SpaceX launches NROL-149 satellite with new Falcon 9 mission

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SpaceX Falcon 9 Liftoff

On December 17, 2024, SpaceX launched a new Falcon 9 rocket into orbit with NROL-149 satellite payload operated by the United States National Reconnaissance Office. As usual, the payload information and its designated orbit remain secret due to security reasons.

The rocket cleared the launch pad from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. SpaceX attempted the first launch opportunity for NROL-149 in the early morning as the mission supported the engine ignition at full power.

After sending the upper stage near orbit, Falcon 9 performed hot-staging, followed by the first stage boostback burn, and maneuvered back to the Earth.

This was the 22nd flight for the first stage booster and it previously supported Sentinel-6 Michale Freilich, DART, SDA-0B, Iridium OneWeb, Transporter-7, NROL-113, NROL-167, and 14 Starlink missions.

After consuming the final burn, the first stage expanded its landing legs and landed on the “Of Course I Still Love You” droneship stationed in the Pacific Ocean.

(source)

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Mannoo specializes in Generative AI, Large Language Model (LLM), and Aerospace Science. Prior to delving into these fields, he was a Python programmer, a game designer, and an Android and iOS app developer with over 5 years of experience. He has prior writing experience in creative writing about smartphones and technology before working at Eonmsk.com. You can explore his X/TWitter and LinkedIn pages or contact him through his email.

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