NASA Europa Clipper mission 2024: When, where and how to watch it online?

Scientists believe it has a vast subsurface ocean with more water than all Earth's oceans combined. (Image: NASA)

NASA is gearing up for an exciting event. The agency will launch the Europa Clipper spacecraft on Monday. This mission aims to investigate Jupiter's icy moon, Europa, and its potential for supporting life.

The Europa Clipper is set to lift off at 12:06 PM ET (16:06 UTC). The launch will occur at Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket will carry the spacecraft on its 2.9 billion-kilometre journey to Jupiter.

Were going on a 1.8-billion-mile journey to an ocean world Jupiter moon, Europa!@EuropaClipper is set to launch on Monday, Oct. 14, on a @SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket at 12:06pm ET (1606 UTC) from @NASAKennedy. Use #AskNASA to send us your questions. https://t.co/o3xgleA6Z3

NASA (@NASA) October 14, 2024

What Will Europa Clipper Do?

This ambitious $5 billion mission focuses on Europa's habitability. Scientists believe it has a vast subsurface ocean with more water than all Earth's oceans combined. This makes it a top candidate in the search for extraterrestrial life.

The Europa Clipper is NASA's largest spacecraft designed for planetary exploration. It carries nine advanced instruments, including high-resolution cameras and ice-penetrating radar. These tools will help study Europa's composition, geology, and ice shell.

Upon arrival at Jupiter in April 2030, the spacecraft will conduct 49 close flybys of Europa. It will swoop as low as 16 miles above the moon's surface. This close approach allows the spacecraft to scan the moon while avoiding Jupiter's intense radiation belts.

The launch faced a minor setback due to Hurricane Milton, which impacted Florida earlier this week. Fortunately, NASA officials reported manageable damage to the Kennedy Space Center. Preparations for the launch continue as planned.

How to Watch It Live

Space enthusiasts can watch the launch live on NASA’s official website. Coverage will begin shortly before liftoff, allowing viewers to experience this historic moment. Don’t miss the chance to witness this significant step in the quest for understanding life beyond Earth!