Atlas V to Launch Massive ViaSat-3 F2 Satellite After Delay
The powerful Atlas V rocket is set to launch the ViaSat-3 F2 communications satellite tonight, November 6, following a one-day delay. United Launch Alliance (ULA) will conduct the mission from Florida’s Cape Canaveral Space Force Station within a 44-minute launch window opening at 10:16 p.m.
The original launch attempt on November 5 was scrubbed due to a technical issue with the rocket. Live coverage of the event will begin about 20 minutes before liftoff, available through ULA and Space.com.
Mission Details
- Rocket: Atlas V
- Payload: ViaSat-3 F2 communications satellite
- Launch location: Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida
- Satellite mass: approximately 13,000 pounds (5,900 kilograms)
- Launch window: opens at 10:16 p.m. local time
Deployment and Orbit
If successful, the Atlas V will deploy the ViaSat-3 F2 into geostationary transfer orbit about 3.5 hours after liftoff. The satellite will then gradually move into its geostationary orbit, located 22,236 miles (35,786 kilometers) above Earth, where it will appear stationary over one region of the planet.
“Satellites in GEO ‘hover’ over the same patch of Earth continuously, making the orbit ideal for communication and surveillance missions.”
Future Operations
The ViaSat-3 F2 is planned to begin delivering broadband internet services to customers in early 2026, expanding global communications capabilities.
Author’s Summary
The delayed Atlas V launch aims to position the ViaSat-3 F2 satellite into geostationary orbit tonight, supporting future broadband connections that will go live in 2026.