SpaceX successfully launches inmarsat-5 F4 commercial communications satelitte
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The successful launch was broadcast live over the internet on Monday.
Technicians in the NASA control room erupted into applause when the satellite entered the final stage.
The Inmarsat-5 F4 satellite, built by Boeing, will boost high-speed mobile broadband connectivity provided by Global Xpress to customers around the world, SpaceX said in a press release prior to Monday's launch.
The satellite is 7 meters tall and 40.6 meters wide, making it taller than a double-decker bus and wider than a Boeing 737, according to Inmarsat's website.
Weighing in at nearly 6,100 kg, the satellite is the heaviest load ever delivered by a SpaceX Falcon rocket.
The satellite will be deployed about 32 minutes after launch and maneuvered into its orbit 35,786 km above earth.