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SpaceX set to launch Wednesday morning

The plan is to launch the first of two prototypes for its "vast satellite-internet constellation".
The rocket seen over Phoenix Dec. 22, 2017. (Photo: Rachel Holbert)

SAN DIEGO (NEWS 8) - A delayed SpaceX launch is set to blast off Wednesday morning at 7:17 Arizona time.

The original launch was set for Sunday, February 18 at 6:16 PST, but was scrubbed to give the SpaceX team more time to check the rocket's upgraded nose cone.

If the launch goes as planned, you can watch the live stream here.

In a tweet on Tuesday, SpaceX said the rocket is vertical and the weather is 90 percent favorable for launch.

An earlier tweet from SpaceX on Saturday, February 17 said, "Team at Vandenberg is taking additional time to perform final checkouts of upgraded fairing. Payload and vehicle remain healthy. Due to mission requirements, now targeting February 21 launch of PAZ."

The plan is to launch the first of two prototypes for its “vast satellite-internet constellation”.

According to space.com:

The main purpose of the launch is getting the Paz satellite to orbit for Spanish operator Hisdesat. Paz will generate sharp radar imagery of Earth for a variety of customers, including the Spanish government, over the course of the satellite's 5.5-year mission

SpaceX launched 10 communications satellites into orbit from Vandenberg Air Force Base Friday December 22, 2017. The launch was visible across most of Southern California and Arizona which were treated to a spectacular light show as the rocket streaked across the sky. Camera-wielding witnesses snapped photos and quickly posted them on social media, with many wondering if it was a UFO.

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