SpaceX continues its busy launch schedule, with multiple Falcon 9 rockets carrying Starlink satellites into orbit this week. Early risers on the East Coast had a chance to witness a launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Sunday, while West Coast viewers saw one take off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
East Coast Launch: Starlink 10-27 Mission
The Starlink 10-27 mission lifted off from Cape Canaveral at 6:53 a.m. EDT, sending 28 Starlink V2 Mini satellites into low Earth orbit. This launch utilized the Falcon 9 first stage booster B1085, marking its 11th flight. Following liftoff, SpaceX successfully landed the booster on the droneship "A Shortfall of Gravitas," achieving the 125th touchdown on this vessel and the 508th booster landing for SpaceX overall.
Residents along Florida's Space Coast, from Daytona and New Smyrna Beach to Vero Beach and Fort Pierce, had the potential for a spectacular early morning view, weather permitting.
West Coast Launch: More Starlink Satellites
On the opposite coast, a Falcon 9 rocket launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, carrying 24 more Starlink internet satellites. This launch occurred at 12:31 p.m. EDT (9:31 a.m. local California time). The first stage booster, B1088, successfully landed on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" in the Pacific Ocean, marking its 10th mission.
With these launches, SpaceX continues to expand its Starlink constellation, which already comprises nearly 8,400 active satellites, providing broadband internet access globally.
What's Next for SpaceX?
SpaceX shows no signs of slowing down. Keep an eye on newsrpt.com for updates on future launches and other space-related developments. SpaceX aims to provide reliable and affordable access to space, revolutionizing various industries and enabling ambitious projects like lunar and Martian exploration.