The SpaceX Falcon Heavy with ViaSat-3 blasts off from Florida. Courtesy of ViaSat A SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket on Sunday successfully launched the first of three new high-capacity communications satellites for Carlsbad-based Viasat. ViaSat-3 Americas will be the first of three satellites to make up an ultra-high-capacity constellation, designed to provide high-quality, affordable internet connectivity and coverage. The launch from Cape Canaveral came at 5:26 p.m. Pacific time after several days of delays due to weather and technical issues. ViaSat-3 is one of the largest communications satellites ever launched. It is equipped with huge solar panels generating 25 kilowatts of power and stretching 144 feet from tip to tip. The first satellite in the series will serve North and South America; the second Europe, the Middle East and Africa; and the third Asia and the Pacific. Get neighborhood news in your inbox. It's free and enlightening. Join the 20,000+ people who get Times of San Diego in their inbox at 8 a.m. every day – plus breaking news alerts. We've also added weekly updates from San Diego neighborhoods! By clicking sign up, you agree to the terms. Select below. Email address