SpaceX Deploys 24 More Starlink Satellites in Record-Breaking Launch

Falcon 9 Completes 14th Mission, Expanding Global Internet Network

SpaceX successfully augmented its Starlink constellation with 24 new satellites late Friday, continuing its rapid expansion of global internet coverage. The launch marked a significant milestone for the company’s reusable rocket technology.

Another Successful Night Launch

A Falcon 9 rocket blasted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 8:52 p.m. local time. Approximately nine minutes post-liftoff, the rocket’s upper stage successfully delivered the payload of two dozen Starlink spacecraft into low Earth orbit.

The booster’s first stage achieved its 14th mission completion by landing precisely on the autonomous droneship named “Of Course I Still Love You,” stationed in the Pacific Ocean. This launch represented SpaceX’s 88th Falcon 9 flight of 2025 and the 516th overall successful mission.

Starlink Network Growth Continues

With the addition of these 24 satellites (mission designation 17-3), the Starlink network now boasts over 7,965 active satellites. This number is part of a larger fleet exceeding 9,200 satellites launched since 2019. SpaceX’s satellite internet service aims to provide broadband access to underserved areas worldwide and also offers direct-to-cell capabilities.

As of early 2025, Starlink has expanded its services to over 70 countries, reaching more than 3 million users, demonstrating significant progress in bridging the digital divide globally. This expansion is crucial for areas lacking traditional internet infrastructure.