SpaceX just launched another batch of Starlink satellites. If there were a nickel for every launch, we’d have a pile of them by now!
On November 6, SpaceX sent up Starlink Group 11-14. The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 4:13 PM EST, carrying 28 new satellites to join the growing Starlink fleet in low Earth orbit.
This launch marked the eighth flight for this particular Falcon 9 booster, known as B1093. After separating from the rocket’s upper stage and completing a series of successful burns, it landed on a drone ship in the Pacific Ocean about 8.5 minutes after liftoff. B1093 will now be taken back for refurbishment, preparing it for future missions.
The upper stage of the Falcon 9 continued its journey, carrying the satellites to their deployment point. They’re expected to be released about an hour after launch. With this addition, Starlink will have over 8,800 satellites providing global internet coverage.
This year alone, SpaceX has completed 142 Falcon 9 missions. Out of those, 102 have focused on expanding the Starlink network. It’s a remarkable feat in the space industry, reflecting the growing demand for global connectivity, especially in remote areas.
Experts in the tech field highlight the importance of such advancements. According to a recent survey by Pew Research, about 31% of Americans say they rely on their smartphones for internet access, making robust connections more vital than ever. With SpaceX leading the charge, the future of internet access looks brighter.
As we look back at the rapid developments in satellite technology, it’s clear that what once took years to innovate is now happening at an incredible pace. SpaceX is reshaping how we think about internet access, making it more accessible to people around the world.
For more information, check out SpaceX’s official page for updates on their latest missions.
