CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. -- The U.S. Air Force’s 45th Space Wing supported the successful SpaceX Falcon 9 THAICOM-8 launch today at 5:39 p.m. ET from Launch Complex 40 here.
Thaicom PLC's THAICOM-8 satellite will provide Ku-band broadcast and data services to Thailand, Southeast Asia, India and Africa.
This is the ninth major launch operation for the Eastern Range this year. A combined team of military, government civilians and contractors from across the 45th Space Wing supported the mission with weather forecasts, launch and range operations, security, safety and public affairs. The wing also provided its vast network of radar, telemetry and communications instrumentation to facilitate a safe launch on the Eastern Range.
“I am proud of the entire professional team here on the Space Coast who worked together flawlessly to make our ninth launch of the year a success,” said Col. Thomas Falzarano, 45th Operations Group commander, who served as the Launch Decision Authority. “Assured access to space is a challenging endeavor and today's launch once again clearly demonstrates the collaborative efforts required for mission success. Congratulations to SpaceX. This mission once again clearly demonstrates the successful collaboration we have with our mission partners as we continue to shape the future of America's space operations, and serve as the ‘World’s Premier Gateway to Space.’”