[Introducing Space Curious, a new podcast by WKMG News 6]This particular launch is unique because the satellite requires a polar orbit to get above the South Pole.
It’s the first satellite with a polar-orbit launching from Florida since Nov. 30, 1960. Most polar launches happen from California’s Vandenberg Air Force Base because a polar launch from Florida puts the rocket trajectory over land, specifically Cuba.This launch will also include a landing back at Cape Canaveral, the first since March.
All other rocket booster landings this year have been in the Atlantic Ocean on a droneship.Again, it’s possible this could all change because of weather or technical issues.