SpaceX successfully launched another batch of Starlink satellites aboard its Falcon 9 rocket early Tuesday morning from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The Starlink 10-28 mission carried 28 broadband internet satellites into low Earth orbit, continuing SpaceX's efforts to expand its global internet coverage.
Successful Liftoff and Weather Conditions
The Falcon 9 lifted off from Space Launch Complex 40 at 4:21 a.m. EDT (0821 UTC). The 45th Weather Squadron had predicted a 95 percent chance of favorable weather conditions, with only a slight risk of interference from cumulus clouds. The launch proceeded smoothly, marking another achievement for SpaceX.
Booster's Remarkable Reuse
This mission utilized the Falcon 9 first stage booster B1077, marking its impressive 22nd launch. Previously, this booster supported NASA’s Crew-5 mission, the GPS III Space Vehicle 06, and 17 prior Starlink satellite deployments. This remarkable reuse highlights SpaceX's commitment to reducing the cost of spaceflight through reusable rocket technology.
Landing on 'A Shortfall of Gravitas'
Approximately eight minutes after liftoff, B1077 successfully landed on the droneship 'A Shortfall of Gravitas.' This landing marks the 117th touchdown for this specific vessel and the 473rd booster landing overall for SpaceX, further solidifying their leadership in reusable rocket technology.
Future Missions and Space Force Contract
Looking ahead, SpaceX continues to secure contracts for future launches. The Space Force recently awarded SpaceX $81.6 million to launch the USSF-178 mission during the first half of the 2027 fiscal year. This mission includes the Weather System Follow-on-Microwave Space Vehicle 2 (WSF-M2), designed to enhance global weather prediction models, and the BLAZE-2, a collection of Department of Defense small satellites for various research and operational purposes.
This recent launch underscores SpaceX's ongoing commitment to expanding internet access and supporting critical government missions, solidifying its position as a leader in the commercial space industry.