SpaceX completes first commercial launch to deploy Saudi satellite

SpaceX has completed an unprecedented commercial rocket mission using its Falcon Heavy rocket to send a telecommunications satellite into orbit for Saudi Arabia-based firm Arabsat.

The launch also marked the first time SpaceX has managed to bring all three of the rocket’s boosters back to Earth successfully after a flight. One of the greatest advantages of the Falcon Heavy is the reusability of its boosters, which minimises spaceflight costs. The vehicle’s upgraded rocket cores also make it the world’s most powerful rocket.

Since the Falcon Heavy made its debut in 2018, SpaceX has received several orders for launches, including a US$130 million contract to carry a satellite for the US Air Force.