SpaceX launched 26 more Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit on Tuesday, July 15, from southern California. The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off at 7:05 p.m. PDT, battling fog and clouds over Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base.
The satellites, designated Group 15-2, entered orbit about eight and a half minutes after liftoff. They were slated for deployment after a second burn of the Falcon 9’s upper stage, expected about an hour into the mission.
The rocket’s first stage, after its journey to space and back, successfully landed on the droneship “Of Course I Still Love You” in the Pacific Ocean. This particular stage, identified by its serial number B1093, previously flew in June for its third Starlink mission, marking its fourth total flight.
This launch further expands SpaceX’s Starlink constellation, which now comprises over 7,950 active satellites. The Federal Communications Commission has granted approval for up to 12,000 units, with the company seeking authorization for an additional 30,000 spacecraft.
