Launch/scrub recap of SpaceX and ULA doubleheader rocket launch night from Cape

SpaceX and ULA Double Launch Night Recap from Cape Canaveral

On the evening of November 5, SpaceX and United Launch Alliance (ULA) prepared for a rare back-to-back launch event from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The night was set to potentially match the Space Coast’s annual launch record of 93 from the previous year.

Successful Starlink 6-81 Launch

SpaceX successfully launched its Starlink 6-81 mission at 8:31 p.m. from Launch Complex 40. The Falcon 9 rocket carried another group of Starlink satellites, heading southeast over the Atlantic.

Residents across Brevard County could hear the rocket’s deep rumble, but the first-stage booster did not return to land. Instead, it targeted a drone ship landing at sea.

ViaSat-3 F2 Mission Scrubbed

The second launch of the evening, ULA’s ViaSat-3 Flight 2 (F2) mission, did not go as planned. The countdown was halted due to an issue cycling the booster’s liquid oxygen tank vent valve, leading to a scrub before liftoff.

“United Launch Alliance is now targeting 10:16 p.m. on November 6 for the lift-off of the ViaSat-3 F2 mission.”

The mission is expected to proceed from Launch Complex 41 once the issue is resolved. ULA has a launch window extending until 11 p.m. for the next attempt.

About the ViaSat-3 Program

The ViaSat-3 constellation aims to expand broadband communications globally, with each satellite offering high-capacity coverage for specific regions.

Author’s summary: SpaceX achieved a smooth Starlink deployment on November 5, while ULA postponed its ViaSat-3 F2 mission due to a technical valve issue, rescheduling for the following evening.

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Florida Today Florida Today — 2025-11-06

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