A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launches the INMARSAT-5 F4 commercial communications satellite from Space Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center at 7:21 p.m. on 15 May 2017. INMARSAT-5 F4 is the fourth satellite in the Global Xpress constellation; the world’s first globally available, high speed, mobile broadband service for users on land, at sea, and in the air. The satellite was built by Boeing Network & Space Systems. Due to the weight of the satellite, the first stage did not have enough fuel left over to attempt a landing.

A flock of Roseate Spoonbills flew by as the rocket lifted off the launch pad. A lone Spoonbill can be seen near the center of the image. They all flew by safely.

View the INMARSAT-5 F4 launch gallery.