Falcon 9 Block 5 | TRACERS
July 23, 2025 at 06:13 PM UTC
MISSION
NASA's Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites (TRACERS) mission, consisting of two identical satellites that will orbit Earth in tandem (one following the other), will help understand magnetic re-connection and its effects in Earth’s atmosphere. Magnetic re-connection occurs when activity from the Sun interacts with Earth’s magnetic field. By understanding this process, scientists will be able to better understand and prepare for impacts of solar activity on Earth. Hitchhiking small satellites: * Athena EPIC (Economical Payload Integration Cost) * Polylingual Experimental Terminal (PExT) * Relativistic Electron Atmospheric Loss (REAL)
OUTCOME
Falcon 9 Block 5 | TRACERS completed its mission. The vehicle performed as expected and the payload reached its intended destination. SpaceX logged another successful flight in what has become a routine that was, not long ago, considered impossible to achieve at this pace.
The launch vehicle successfully inserted its payload(s) into the target orbit(s).
VEHICLE
Falcon 9 is a two-stage rocket designed and manufactured by SpaceX for the reliable and safe transport of satellites and the Dragon spacecraft into orbit. The Block 5 variant is the fifth major interval aimed at improving upon the ability for rapid reusability.
If this mission lands back at the Cape or Vandenberg, find out if you are close enough to hear the double sonic boom.
CHECK YOUR LOCATION →