Atlas V Rocket Launches ViaSat-3 F2 Satellite
United Launch Alliance (ULA) is set to launch the powerful ViaSat-3 F2 satellite tonight, November 6, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The spacecraft, weighing about 13,000 pounds (5,900 kilograms), will lift off atop an Atlas V rocket during a 44-minute window opening at 10:16 p.m.
The launch was postponed by one day after ULA canceled the initial attempt on November 5 due to a rocket issue.
Watch the Launch Live
You can watch the live broadcast of the launch at Space.com, with coverage starting approximately 20 minutes before liftoff. The broadcast is provided courtesy of ULA and is also available directly from the company.
Mission Details
Following liftoff, the Atlas V rocket will deploy ViaSat-3 F2 into geostationary transfer orbit about 3.5 hours later. The satellite will then spend several months travelling to its final destination in geostationary orbit (GEO), which is a circular orbit located 22,236 miles (35,786 kilometers) above the Earth.
“At this altitude, orbital speed matches our planet's rotational speed, allowing satellites to 'hover' over the same spot continually.”
This orbit is ideal for communications and spy satellites because they remain fixed over a specific location on Earth.
Satellite Capabilities and Timeline
ViaSat-3 F2 is designed to provide broadband internet services and is expected to begin offering service to customers in early 2026.
The mission highlights the growing importance of advanced communication satellites in global connectivity.
Author’s Summary
The ViaSat-3 F2 mission marks a critical step toward expanding high-speed broadband coverage, with a launch delay resolved and liftoff planned for tonight at Cape Canaveral.