SpaceX successfully launched an additional 20 Starlink satellites on July 11, including 13 equipped with direct-to-cell capabilities, as reported by Space.com.
The mission, which took place at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, saw liftoff at 10:35 pm EDT (7:35 pm local California time; 0235 GMT on July 12). The launch, initially scheduled for the previous day, was delayed without a specified reason.
The Falcon 9 rocket's first stage made a successful return to Earth, landing on the SpaceX droneship Of Course I Still Love You in the Pacific Ocean about eight minutes after liftoff. This particular booster has now completed 19 launches and landings, nearing the record of 22 flights set by another Falcon 9 first stage in late June.
After separating from the first stage, the Falcon 9's upper stage continued to deploy the 20 satellites into their designated low Earth orbit. Deployment was scheduled approximately 59 minutes after liftoff.
This launch marks SpaceX's 69th Falcon 9 mission in 2024, with nearly half dedicated to expanding the Starlink mega constellation. Currently, the Starlink network consists of more than 6,150 operational satellites, including over 100 with direct-to-cell capabilities. SpaceX plans to increase the number of satellites with this feature as it expands and enhances the Starlink constellation in the coming months.
Get Satellite Images of Your Home from Space with Just a Few Clicks!
Japan Successfully Launches Advanced Earth Observation Satellite on New H3 Rocket
Iran Expands Ballistic Missile and Drone Facilities, New Satellite Images Reveal