SpaceX has successfully launched another group of Starlink satellites. On April 28, a Falcon 9 rocket took off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying 23 satellites, including 13 designed for direct communication with mobile phones. The launch happened at 10:34 p.m. EDT.
This was the second launch of the day; earlier, another Falcon 9 rocket sent 27 satellites into orbit from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base. Notably, this Falcon 9’s first stage had its first liftoff, which is unusual since many SpaceX boosters have multiple flights under their belts.
The Falcon 9 landed safely on the SpaceX drone ship “A Shortfall of Gravitas” in the Atlantic Ocean. After the launch, the upper stage of the rocket continued its journey, deploying the satellites 65 minutes after takeoff.
As of now, SpaceX has completed 50 Falcon 9 launches this year alone. A significant 33 of these missions have contributed to expanding the Starlink network, the largest satellite constellation in existence. Over 7,200 satellites are currently active, according to satellite tracker Jonathan McDowell.
Starlink aims to deliver broadband internet globally, especially in remote areas. According to a recent study, nearly 70% of rural Americans face internet service issues. Experts highlight that networks like Starlink could be game-changers for these communities, providing much-needed connectivity.
In social media circles, excitement continues to grow around the Starlink service, with users sharing positive experiences about faster internet speeds and improved access in previously underserved areas. As the network expands, SpaceX remains committed to enhancing global internet access.
For more detailed statistics on Starlink and its deployments, you can check [this source](https://planet4589.org/space/con/star/stats.html).