Ground systems issue scrubs 12th operational Starlink launch [Updated]

Enlarge / This used Falcon 9 rocket came close to launching on Thursday morning, but a ground sensor reading scrubbed the attempt. (credit: Trevor Mahlmann for Ars)

Oct. 1, 9:55am ET: Thursday morning's launch attempt of a Falcon 9 rocket got down to T-18 seconds before an automated system triggered an abort. The issue was related to an unexpected ground sensor reading-so yes another ground-systems launch issue in Florida. There have been a lot of those in the last few weeks.

SpaceX has not set a new launch date for the Starlink mission, but assuming the issue can be remedied fairly quickly, it may set up another attempt on Friday morning. If that happens, it's also possible SpaceX will try to launch a GPS III satellite for the Air Force on Friday night, but neither of these dates have yet been confirmed in light of the Starlink scrub.

Oct. 1, 8:25am ET: This mission is back on the pad and ready for launch after a weather delay, and contending with a crowded range. SpaceX deferred to United Launch Alliance this week while that company made two attempts to get its Delta IV Heavy booster off the pad. The second attempt was unsuccessful late on Wednesday night.

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