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between Russia and Ukraine ruled out the use of Soyuz rockets. These Galileo satellites are crucial for maintaining an independent European global
satellite navigation system, and they contain encrypted communication
equipment for European military use. This marks the first time in 15 years
that Galileo satellites will launch from outside Europe and the first
instance of SpaceX launching European satellites with classified equipment. (ANS thanks TechCrunch for the above information)


+ SpaceX plans to launch 144 missions in the coming year, aiming to increase its already impressive launch frequency. In 2023, the company has already completed 74 orbital missions, breaking its own previous record of 61 set in 2022. SpaceX intends to reach 100 flights this year, requiring a significant acceleration in launch cadence. They aim to achieve approximately 12 flights per month in 2024. Most of these missions will be dedicated to the Starlink internet-satellite megaconstellation. While Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets have dominated SpaceX's missions so far, they are working on their reusable Starship rocket for future exploration, with a second test flight pending approval from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. SpaceX aims for rapid hardware development through frequent test flights despite regulatory challenges. (ANS thanks Space.com for the above information)


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73 and remember to help Keep Amateur Radio in Space!

This week's ANS Editor, Mitch Ahrenstorff, ADØHJ
ad0hj [at] amsat.org

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