SpaceX achieved yet another milestone today (Jan. 8) with the successful launch of 21 Starlink satellites from Florida’s Space Coast. The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off at 10:27 a.m. EST (1527 GMT) from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, further advancing the company’s mission to provide global internet coverage.
Credit: SpaceX
The payload included 13 satellites equipped with Direct to Cell capabilities, a new technology designed to enhance cellular connectivity in remote areas. These specialized satellites are part of SpaceX's ongoing efforts to revolutionize communication networks worldwide.
As planned, the Falcon 9’s reusable first stage returned to Earth approximately eight minutes after launch, executing a flawless touchdown on the drone ship "A Shortfall of Gravitas," stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. This marked the third flight and landing for this particular booster, which previously supported one other Starlink mission.
Meanwhile, the rocket’s upper stage continued its journey to low Earth orbit (LEO), where it successfully deployed the 21 Starlink satellites about 65 minutes after liftoff.
With today’s launch, SpaceX has once again demonstrated its commitment to expanding the Starlink network, which is already the largest satellite constellation ever deployed. According to satellite tracker and astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell, more than 6,850 active Starlink satellites now orbit the Earth, providing internet access to underserved regions and bolstering global connectivity.
This mission underscores SpaceX’s progress toward creating a seamless communication infrastructure, combining advanced technology with reusable rocketry to reduce costs and increase access. As the constellation continues to grow, the company edges closer to its ambitious goal of universal internet coverage.
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