Lots of info just dropped: SpaceX Reveals Potential Launch Date For Its Next Falcon Heavy Rocket — Forbes NET March 7th for first (Arabsat) of two launches Side boosters will RTLS, core to land on OCISLY The best part: The two FCC filling themselves: Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) 0026-EX-ST-2019 FCC Experimental License Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) 0028-EX-ST-2019 FCC Experimental License
That rumour part is from an excellent Teslarati article: SpaceX to attempt back-to-back Falcon Heavy launches with booster reuse in 2019 That article also spells out my initial thoughts on the re-use of the Arabsat boosters (my emphasis):
Lastly, regarding STP-2: Yes, SpaceX launching dead weight. I cannot help but think that slightly annoys a tiny part of Elon’s brain (“The humans, they are so inefficient. And they enjoy this zip-lining?”).
Falcon Heavy making only second flight, but it’s already changing the game Quote: “in the 14 months since the large rocket's inaugural flight, Falcon Heavy has had a remarkable effect on the nation's space policy. In three key areas—national defense, science, and human exploration—the Falcon Heavy rocket has to some extent changed the discussion. As it turns out, the demand was there for a low-cost, heavy-lift booster.”
Here's a good article on what drove the Arabsat customer to choose FH over a F9: Arabsat CEO: Falcon Heavy gives our satellite extra life - SpaceNews.com
Quote from that article: Arabsat-6A is a large satellite, weighing 6,460-kilograms. Balkheyour said preliminary calculations show the satellite will get an extra boost from Falcon Heavy that should extend its life to between 18 and 20 years.“ Wow. Totally worth the extra cost of the FH compared to the F9.
Confirmed they will reuse the side boosters from Arabsat 6A on STP-2. SpaceX wasn't sure of the center core recovery and the wear and tear on such a rough landing. So STP-2 will use a brand new center core. Coming up pretty soon.
Does anyone have a contact at SpaceX? There is an issue with their website I think needs addressed (or I'm just type A (or wrong)). Happy to just PM the info to pass along, no need to give me their info. Thanks
Moderator interruption. A quick reminder that this thread is about general Falcon Heavy rocket discussion. Posts about a particular FH launch should be made in the launch thread. I expect todays launch will have an effect on Falcon Heavies market. More satellite companies will consider the upgrade to the FH to get their satellite in place faster and with more fuel.