The latest batch of Starlink satellites for SpaceX’s internet service was successfully launched into orbit on Monday night from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The Falcon 9 rocket carrying the satellites took off at 11:20 p.m. EST, piercing through a thin layer of clouds as it headed on a southeasterly trajectory. This mission marks the 57th Starlink launch of 2023 and the 277th Falcon 9 launch to date.
The first stage booster, with tail number 1062, made its 17th flight on this mission, having previously supported two crewed missions. After liftoff, the first stage successfully landed on the drone ship “Just Read the Instructions” about eight and a half minutes later, marking another milestone for SpaceX’s reusability efforts.
The 23 Starlink satellites were deployed as planned from the second stage of the Falcon 9 a little over an hour into the mission, bringing the total number of Starlink satellites launched to 5,514. This successful flight also marked the 83rd Falcon 9 launch of 2023 and the 87th SpaceX orbital launch of 2023.
SpaceX’s continuous efforts to expand its Starlink satellite constellation aim to provide global internet coverage, especially in underserved and remote areas. This mission is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to improving global connectivity through its space-based internet service.
The successful launch also reaffirms Cape Canaveral’s position as a key launch site, with this being the 66th orbital launch from the Florida-based facility. With SpaceX’s ambitious launch schedule and rapid expansion of its satellite constellation, the company continues to push the boundaries of space technology and innovation.