On December 13, 2024, SpaceX achieved another milestone with the launch of 22 Starlink internet satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
At precisely 4:55 p.m. EDT (2155 GMT; 1:55 p.m. local time), a Falcon 9 rocket took to the skies from California, carrying with it 22 Starlink satellites destined for low Earth orbit. This mission continues SpaceX’s ambitious agenda of expanding their satellite internet constellation, which has already grown to over 6,800 operational spacecraft.
The rocket’s first stage completed its mission efficiently, returning to Earth as planned. It landed on SpaceX’s drone ship, ‘Of Course I Still Love You,’ marking the ninth successful flight and landing of this particular booster. Notably, seven out of its nine flights have been part of Starlink missions, highlighting the booster’s reliability and the company’s commitment to reusability.
The upper stage of the Falcon 9 was responsible for deploying the satellites into orbit approximately 60 minutes post-launch. These satellites, once operational, will join the already extensive network providing global internet coverage.
SpaceX has proven its prowess in spaceflight with more than 120 Falcon 9 launches in 2024 alone. A significant portion of these launches, close to 70%, has been dedicated to building the Starlink constellation. This expansion aids in providing greater internet access to underserved and rural areas worldwide.
This recent launch underscores SpaceX’s consistent progress in satellite deployment and reusable rocketry, further strengthening their position as a leader in the private spaceflight sector. Their work with the Starlink network offers potential improvements in global internet infrastructure, aligning with broader goals of connectivity.
SpaceX’s latest launch from California reinforces its steadfast dedication to advancing satellite internet services globally through the Starlink constellation.
Source: Space
