The Supermoon and SpaceX Launch Amid ULA Scrub
On Wednesday night, SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket while United Launch Alliance (ULA) scrubbed its launch attempt as the full supermoon rose over the Space Coast. SpaceX has dominated launch activities this year, but Wednesday was set for a joint effort with ULA aiming for two orbital missions that could have tied the annual launch record from the region.
Space Coast Launches Under the Supermoon
The year's largest supermoon, known as the Beaver Moon, rose at 5:41 p.m. The November supermoon is the second of three this year and also the closest, coming within just under 222,000 miles of Earth. According to NASA, its proximity makes it appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than the faintest full moons.
"The moon came within just under 222,000 miles of Earth," said NASA.
Earlier that day, a SpaceX Falcon 9 and a ULA Atlas V stood less than two miles apart at their respective launch pads at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, highlighting the competitive yet collaborative nature of space operations at the Space Coast.
Launch Attempts and Outcomes
- SpaceX launched the Starlink 6-81 mission at 8:30 p.m. from Space Launch Complex 40, deploying 29 satellites.
- ULA had to scrub its Atlas V launch and will attempt again on Thursday at 10:16 p.m.
"Falcon 9 launches 29 @Starlink satellites from Florida."
Outlook
With ULA rescheduling its launch, the Space Coast remains a hub of intense activity, demonstrating resilience and ambition in the rapidly evolving space industry.
Author's Summary
SpaceX's successful Falcon 9 launch coincided with the striking Beaver Moon while ULA postponed its Atlas V mission, illustrating the Space Coast's dynamic 2025 launch schedule.