SpaceX Launch Adds 28 Starlink Satellites to the Global Network
In the pre-dawn hours of Tuesday, SpaceX propelled 28 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The mission, part of the company’s ongoing effort to expand global broadband coverage, took off from Space Launch Complex 40 and marked SpaceX’s 130th mission of 2025. The successful ascent underscores SpaceX’s rapid-launch cadence and the expanding footprint of Starlink’s satellite constellation.
Falcon 9 Booster Makes an Eight-Time Flight
The Falcon 9’s first stage completed its eighth flight, landing successfully on the droneship A Shortfall of Gravitas in the Atlantic Ocean roughly 8.5 minutes after liftoff. The booster, designated B1090, has a growing flight record that includes missions such as CRS-33, O3b mPOWER-E, Crew-10, Bandwagon-3, O3b mPOWER-D, and two prior Starlink deployments. This reuse exemplifies SpaceX’s emphasis on cost efficiency and rapid reusability as core components of its launch strategy.
Satellite Deployment and Network Growth
After separating from the upper stage, the 28 Starlink satellites continued their journey to orbit, with deployment expected about 64 minutes post-launch. The Starlink 10-59 mission contributes to a network now numbering in the thousands of satellites, all designed to provide high-speed internet coverage across remote and underserved regions. The ongoing expansion is central to SpaceX’s plan to deliver reliable connectivity worldwide, from rural communities to maritime routes and disaster zones.
Weather Delays and the Path to Liftoff
Persistent storms over the Atlantic and central Florida had previously delayed the mission. The successful liftoff demonstrates SpaceX’s ability to navigate challenging weather windows, ensuring that a robust launch cadence can resume when conditions improve. In a year marked by frequent launches, Cape Canaveral remains a critical hub for advancing both commercial and strategic space operations.
Looking Ahead: Starship and Broader Space Endeavors
Beyond Falcon 9 missions, SpaceX has continued a broader test schedule for its Starship program, with several suborbital flights completed this year and a fifth mission on the horizon. While Starlink continues to grow, SpaceX’s broader portfolio signals a longer-term strategy that balances satellite broadband with ambitious propulsion and exploration goals.
Why This Mission Matters
Each Starlink deployment helps broaden access to reliable internet, potentially transforming education, healthcare, and commerce in underserved regions. The reuse of a veteran booster like B1090 also highlights the efficiency gains that enable more frequent launches, rapid updates to the constellation, and an accelerated timeline toward SpaceX’s long-term connectivity objectives.
