In a rapid demonstration of launch capability, SpaceX successfully sent 2 batches of its Starlink satellites into orbit within a span of 20 hours, strengthening its global internet network.
The first batch included 29 broadband internet relay units (Starlink group 10-24), launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at around 5:23am EDT on Tuesday. Later the same day, a second batch of 25 satellites (group 17-27) was launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base.
Both missions used Falcon 9 rockets, which successfully returned to Earth after launch. Around 1 hour after liftoff, the upper stage deployed the satellites, placing them on track to join SpaceX’s low Earth orbit megaconstellation.
The first-stage boosters also completed successful landings. Booster B1080 touched down on the droneship “Just Read the Instructions” in the Atlantic Ocean, marking its 26th flight. Booster 1082 landed on “Of Course I Still Love You” in the Pacific Ocean, reaching 21 flights, highlighting the reusability of the system.
Following these missions, the Starlink network now has over 10,200 satellites in orbit. The Vandenberg launch marked SpaceX’s 46th mission of the year and its 629th Falcon 9 launch since 2010.
This double launch reflects SpaceX’s ongoing efforts to expand global internet coverage through its Starlink project.
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