SpaceX launched 26 Starlink satellites from California on June 16. The Falcon 9 rocket, on its third flight, lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base at 8:36 p.m. PDT.
About eight and a half minutes later, the satellites entered low Earth orbit. They were set to be deployed after the Falcon’s upper stage made a second burn around one hour into the mission.
Meanwhile, the rocket’s first stage successfully landed on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" in the Pacific Ocean. This particular stage, designated B1093, had previously flown in May and has now completed three missions for Starlink.
This launch followed a similar mission from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station just days earlier, which included the last satellites needed for SpaceX’s first-generation direct-to-cell program. This technology is designed to connect unmodified cellphones in remote areas, expanding communication capabilities where traditional networks might fail.
While Monday’s launch didn’t include these direct-to-cell satellites, it further strengthened the Starlink broadband network, which now boasts over 7,760 active satellites. This expansion plays a crucial role in providing high-speed internet worldwide, particularly in underserved regions.
According to a recent survey, approximately 68% of people in remote areas reported improved internet service due to Starlink’s deployment. As technology continues to evolve, experts believe that satellite internet may eventually become the standard for global connectivity.
For more details on SpaceX’s missions, you can visit SpaceX’s official site.