Sat Dec 21 03:40:00 UTC 2024: ## SpaceX Launches Four MicroGEO Satellites, Including First Multi-Mission Satellite
**Cape Canaveral, FL –** SpaceX successfully launched four MicroGEO satellites aboard a Falcon 9 rocket at 12:00 a.m. EST (0500 UTC) on December 21st. The mission, dubbed “Astranis: From One to Many,” deployed three commercial satellites and a groundbreaking multi-mission satellite, UtilitySat. The launch, initially scheduled for an earlier time, proceeded under favorable weather conditions with a greater than 95% chance of success, as reported by the 45th Weather Squadron.
The launch vehicle, Falcon 9 booster B1077, successfully landed on the droneship “A Shortfall of Gravitas” approximately 8.5 minutes after liftoff, marking its 17th mission and SpaceX’s 386th successful booster landing.
The three commercial MicroGEO satellites, each about the size of a washing machine, are destined for diverse applications:
* **NuView Alpha and NuView Bravo:** These two satellites will enhance Anuvu’s (formerly Global Eagle Entertainment) aviation and marine connectivity services across North America and the Caribbean. This expands on an agreement announced in July 2021.
* **AGILA:** This satellite, named after the Philippine national bird, will significantly improve internet access in remote islands of the Philippines through a partnership with Orbits Corp, potentially creating up to 10,000 jobs.
The innovative UtilitySat is the world’s first multi-mission commercial geostationary satellite. Built with onboard propulsion, it can adjust its orbital position to serve different customers and missions throughout its operational life. Its initial mission is providing internet connectivity in Mexico for Apco Networks, aiming to connect up to five million people. Astranis plans to launch a fleet of UtilitySat satellites in the future. This launch marks a significant advancement in flexible and adaptable satellite technology.
First Piper 