SpaceX Launches Two Falcon 9 Rockets in One Day

A Change of Pace at Max Q

Greetings, and welcome back to Max Q. I’m stepping in as your newsletter author during Aria’s absence.

We recently concluded TC Sessions: Space 2021, however, activity within the space industry remains consistently high, even as the year draws to a close.

Stay Connected with Max Q

Remember to subscribe to receive the complimentary newsletter edition of Max Q directly in your inbox.

This ensures you won’t miss any updates or insights into the rapidly evolving world of space technology and exploration.

SpaceX Achieves Reusability Milestone with Dual Launches in a Single Day

On Saturday, SpaceX successfully executed two separate launches within a 24-hour period. The first involved the deployment of another set of Starlink satellites from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

Later that evening, a Turkish communications satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida. This dual-launch event represents a first for SpaceX, demonstrating increased operational capacity.

Record-Breaking Booster Performance

The Starlink mission featured the eleventh flight and landing of a Falcon 9 booster. This achievement establishes a new re-use record for SpaceX’s launch vehicle system.

Such a feat highlights the company’s advancements in reusable rocket technology, reducing the cost of space access.

Upcoming International Space Station Resupply Mission

SpaceX is preparing for another mission to deliver essential supplies and scientific experiment materials to the International Space Station (ISS).

This latest Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) mission is currently slated for launch tomorrow morning from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Image Credits: SpaceX

Reflecting on 2021: Insights for Space Investment

Recently concluded was our TC Sessions: Space 2021 event. A particularly insightful discussion for those involved in startups centered around a panel of investors specializing in early-stage ventures within the space sector.

Several panelists, including Chad Anderson, the founder of Space Capital, shared perspectives on the significant evolution of the space industry. His experience spans years of early investments, allowing him to articulate the key transformations currently underway.

Jessica Robinson from Assembly Ventures highlighted the increasing interconnectedness of space technology with other industries, and conversely, the influence of other sectors on space tech development.

Exclusive Access to Event Content

The complete conversation with the investor panel is available exclusively to TC+ subscribers. This includes access to all other Space panels and fireside chats from the event.

Image Credits: Axiom Space

The increasing convergence of technologies is driving innovation. This is creating new opportunities for investment and growth.

Recent Developments in Space Exploration and Industry

Voyager Space has appointed a new chief revenue officer, recruiting Clay Mowry, formerly a vice president of global sales at Blue Origin. Prior to his role with Blue Origin, Mowry held leadership positions at Arianespace, serving as its chairman and president.

The Axiom Mission 1, a privately funded astronaut flight destined for the International Space Station, has received official approval from NASA and its international collaborators. The mission is currently scheduled for launch on February 28, 2022.

Spaceport Camden, located in Camden County, Georgia, has been issued a launch site operator license by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). While some final steps remain, the spaceport is poised to become a viable launch location for commercial space companies.

Rocket Lab is expanding its capabilities through the acquisition of SolAero Holdings, a company specializing in the production of solar cells, panels, and structural components utilized in space infrastructure. A recent interview with Rocket Lab’s Peter Beck discussed the company’s series of recent acquisitions.

The U.S. Space Force celebrated its second anniversary. It represents the newest branch within the United States armed forces.

NASA is preparing for the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope, targeting a liftoff time of 7:20 AM EST on December 24. The launch will originate from the European spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, utilizing an Arianespace Ariane 5 rocket in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA).