When is SpaceX's first launch of 2026?

SpaceX's first launch of 2026 is scheduled for January 2nd at 9:09 p.m. EST.

What is the COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation satellite for?

The COSMO-SkyMed satellite is designed for Earth observation using radar for applications like disaster prevention, defense, and environmental monitoring.

How many launches did SpaceX complete in 2025?

SpaceX completed a record 165 orbital launches in the year 2025.

Home / Science / SpaceX Kicks Off 2026 With Italian Satellite Launch

SpaceX Kicks Off 2026 With Italian Satellite Launch

3 Jan

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Summary

SpaceX's first launch of 2026 carries an Italian Earth-observing satellite.
The satellite will use radar to study Earth in all weather conditions.
SpaceX achieved a record 165 orbital launches in 2025.

SpaceX Kicks Off 2026 With Italian Satellite Launch

SpaceX is set to commence its 2026 launch schedule tonight, January 2nd, with a mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The Falcon 9 rocket is slated to lift off at 9:09 p.m. EST, carrying a sophisticated Italian Earth-observing satellite into low Earth orbit.

The COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation satellite, developed for the Italian Space Agency and Ministry of Defence, utilizes synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology. This enables continuous Earth observation, regardless of time of day or weather conditions, from an altitude of 385 miles.

This launch signifies the global community's first orbital mission of 2026, following SpaceX's remarkable achievement of 165 orbital launches in 2025. The COSMO-SkyMed network is designed for critical applications including risk management, environmental protection, and defense initiatives.