SpaceX has successfully completed its first Starlink mission of 2025, deploying 24 V2 Mini satellites into low Earth orbit on a Falcon 9 rocket. The launch, which took place at 3:43 p.m. EST (2043 UTC), marked the completion of the company’s first three-hour window.
The Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage booster, B1077, completed its 17th flight and landing, marking the 105th successful landing on a SpaceX droneship. The booster had previously supported several high-profile missions to the International Space Station and GPS 3 SV06.
SpaceX’s Starlink megaconstellation continues to grow, with over 6,895 satellites currently in orbit. The company estimates it will launch more than 170 Falcon rockets this year, including new versions of the V2 Mini satellite, which can handle four times more data than its predecessors.
The latest batch of satellites features improved avionics, propulsion, and power systems, as well as a new Doppio Dualband antenna. This upgrade aims to increase the capacity of each launch by six more satellites than the original design.
Despite launching 24 V2 Mini satellites at once, SpaceX has yet to attempt to fly 29 satellites on a single mission. The company remains tight-lipped about its plans for the upgraded V2 Mini Optimized satellites.
The successful deployment marks another milestone in SpaceX’s efforts to provide global internet connectivity through its Starlink constellation. With over 4.6 million customers worldwide, the company continues to push the boundaries of space technology and satellite manufacturing.
Source: https://spaceflightnow.com/2025/01/06/live-coverage-spacex-to-launch-24-starlink-satellites-on-falcon-9-rocket-from-cape-canaveral-4