SpaceX’s GPS III-9 Satellite is set to launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida on Wednesday, February 11.
This satellite is among the first of its kind to be launched by the Falcon 9, a reusable rocket that will separate into two parts after the launch. One part will deliver the satellite into space, and the other is targeted to land back on Earth.
The GPS III-9 satellite is designed by Lockheed Martin and is intended to be used for US military and consumer GPS technologies, according to the US Space Force.
Initially, its launch was set for yesterday, but due to unforeseen weather conditions, it has been delayed.
This latest mission is one of a dozen the company has launched so far in 2026.
Weather Looks Favorable For Launch — 8:34 p.m.
GPS III-9 Satellite’s propellant load is set to begin. Weather looks favorable for launch according to SpaceX.
Stream GPS III-9 Launch Live — 8:37 p.m.
The mission for the GPS III-9 launch can be streamed here.
https://twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1BRJjgnqYWpxw?s=20
Launch Window Confirmed — 8:40 p.m.
The launch window is set to be from 11:30 p.m. – 12:05 a.m. according to Brevard County Emergency Management. The county has activated their support team.
How Does the Falcon 9 Work? — 8:45 p.m.
After the satellite leaves the Earth’s atmosphere, thrusters within the rocker flip it around, allowing one part of Falcon 9 to go with the GPS III-9 satellite further into space while the second part of the rocket lands safely back on Earth.
Liftoff! — 8:49 p.m.
The Falcon 9 has achieved liftoff🚀
Falcon 9 Explodes — 8:53 p.m.
A follower online has reportedly posted video of the Falcon 9 exploding shortly after takeoff.
Piece of Falcon 9 Returns to Earth — 8:56 p.m.
The first stage of the Falcon 9’s body lands safely back on Earth.
GPS III-9 Deploys from Falcon 9 Body — 8:59 p.m.
The GPS III-9 satellite detaches from the remainder of the Falcon 9’s body and deploys itself.
Mission Complete🚀 — 9:03 p.m.
The Falcon 9 has successfully launched the GPS III-9 Satellite into orbit, marking SpaceX’s third accelerated mission for the U.S. Space Force.
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