SpaceX Falcon 9 launches another batch of Starlink satellites from Florida

In another successful mission for SpaceX, a Falcon 9 rocket carrying a new batch of Starlink satellites launched from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Thursday, May 23rd, at 10:45 p.m. ET. The mission delivered 23 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit, further expanding SpaceX's internet constellation.

The Falcon 9’s first-stage booster used in this mission completed its 13th successful flight. Recovering and reflying boosters translates to significant cost reductions. By reusing them, SpaceX can bring down launch costs, making space exploration more accessible for scientific research, commercial ventures, and future human spaceflight endeavors.

The veteran booster previously supported a diverse range of missions, including the Crew-5 astronaut delivery to the International Space Station, the deployment of the GPS III Space Vehicle 06 navigation satellite, and the launch of commercial communications satellites for Inmarsat, Intelsat, and Northrop Grumman. Additionally, it played a vital role in resupply missions for the International Space Station (CRS-28). Now, this workhorse booster has added seven Starlink launches to its impressive resume.

Capping off this remarkable journey, the rocket's first stage performed a flawless landing on the company’s droneship, "Just Read the Instructions" stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. 

This launch further expands SpaceX's ambitious constellation, aiming to provide high-speed internet access to underserved areas worldwide. Each additional satellite represents another step towards bridging the digital divide and bringing connectivity to millions who currently lack access to high-speed internet. This has the potential to revolutionize communication, education, and economic opportunities in underserved areas around the world.

Falcon 9 launches 23 @Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit from Florida pic.twitter.com/OUosKSJbFL

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 24, 2024

It was a busy week for SpaceX. On Wednesday, May 22nd, at 1:00 a.m. PT, the company launched the NROL-146 mission from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This mission marked the 16th flight for its respective Falcon 9 booster, which previously supported various classified and commercial missions.

Later the same day, SpaceX launched another 23 Starlink satellites from SLC-40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.