SpaceX has successfully launched its 43rd Falcon 9 rocket of the year, marking a significant milestone in the company’s mission to push the boundaries of rocket reuse. The rocket carried 27 Starlink internet satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO), deploying them on schedule about 65 minutes after launch.
This launch marked a new record for the rocket’s first stage, with 16 previous liftoffs being Starlink flights and 6 being reused previously. The booster touched down safely back on Earth on Sunday, becoming the 27th time it has returned to land in just over eight minutes after launch.
The Falcon 9 is part of SpaceX’s growing LEO megaconstellation, which now comprises nearly 7,200 operational satellites. With two other launches scheduled for 2025, SpaceX continues to expand its satellite network, paving the way for a significant impact on global connectivity and space exploration.
This achievement demonstrates SpaceX’s commitment to innovative rocket technology and sustainable space travel, solidifying its position as a leader in the private space industry.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-falcon-9-rocket-launches-27-starlink-satellites-to-orbit-on-record-breaking-27th-flight-photos