SpaceX is at it again! On Thursday morning, they launched their 86th Starlink mission this year, sending 28 new Starlink V2 Mini satellites into space. These satellites are part of a growing network that’s now over 8,400 strong.
The Falcon 9 rocket took off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 4:39 a.m. EDT. Before the launch, the weather looked good, with a 90% chance of favorable conditions, despite a few clouds that might have formed.
The mission used the Falcon 9 booster known as B1080, which has had quite the career. This was its 22nd flight! Just under 9 minutes after takeoff, B1080 successfully landed on the drone ship named A Shortfall of Gravitas. This marked the 126th successful recovery for that ship and brought SpaceX’s total number of booster landings to 511.
After about an hour, the new satellites were deployed into orbit, expanding the Starlink constellation.
According to recent reports, Starlink now covers more areas than ever before. The service is increasingly being recognized for its potential to bridge the internet gap in rural areas. Experts believe that this could transform how we think about connectivity in remote locations. A report from the International Telecommunication Union highlights that almost 3 billion people still lack access to the internet. This makes initiatives like Starlink crucial for global connectivity.
As SpaceX continues to launch more satellites, user reactions are buzzing on social media. Many are excited about the possibilities of faster, more reliable internet in their regions, while others are concerned about space debris. It’s a conversation worth having, as we balance innovation with responsible space exploration.
For those interested in the evolving landscape of satellite internet, research from the Pew Research Center reveals that public awareness of satellite internet options is rising. People want more choices for online access, and services like Starlink are leading the way.
Overall, SpaceX’s relentless efforts to expand its Starlink network are not just about launching satellites. They aim to change how we stay connected in today’s digital world.
