SpaceX successfully launched its Starlink Version 2 Mini satellites into a polar orbit on Friday night, adding 24 new satellites to its megaconstellation. The mission, dubbed Starlink 17-3, brings the total number of satellites in space to over 7,900.
The launch occurred shortly after sunset and was carried out by the Falcon 9 rocket, which lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 8:52 p.m. PDT. The first stage booster used on this mission, tail number B1082, launched for a 14th time and landed back on the droneship “Of Course I Still Love You” just over eight minutes after liftoff.
This mission is part of SpaceX’s plan to deploy hundreds of satellites into polar orbit to improve connectivity in remote regions like Alaska. According to SpaceX, more than 400 additional satellites will be launched by the end of 2025 alone, which will more than double the capacity for Alaskan customers.
The Starlink 17-3 mission marks a significant milestone in SpaceX’s efforts to expand its network and provide faster internet speeds to underserved areas. With this launch, SpaceX is poised to make a major impact on global connectivity, particularly in polar regions where access to high-speed internet is limited.
Following the successful launch of the Starlink 17-3 mission, SpaceX will focus on a rideshare mission for NASA, which includes the TRACERS payload. This mission highlights the growing partnership between SpaceX and NASA, as well as the company’s commitment to advancing space technology and exploration.
Source: https://spaceflightnow.com/2025/07/18/live-coverage-spacex-to-launch-24-starlink-satellites-into-polar-orbit-on-falcon-9-rocket-from-california