SpaceX successfully launched another batch of its Starlink internet satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California’s central coast on Thursday, November 14. The Falcon 9 rocket carrying 20 Starlink spacecraft, including 13 with direct-to-cell capability, lifted off at 12:23 a.m. EST and landed eight minutes later back on Earth.
This was the eighth launch and landing for this particular booster, with five of its previous seven flights being Starlink missions. The Falcon 9’s upper stage continued to deploy the satellites to low Earth orbit.
The Starlink satellite constellation is continuously growing, with over 6,500 active spacecraft currently in operation, including 270 that have direct-to-cell capabilities. This latest launch demonstrates SpaceX’s commitment to expanding its internet connectivity services globally.
SpaceX’s Starlink program aims to provide fast and reliable internet access to remote communities and individuals worldwide. The company continues to make progress towards achieving this goal with frequent launches and deployments of its satellite constellation.
Source: https://www.space.com/spacex-starlink-launch-group-9-11