SpaceX launched another batch of its Starlink internet satellites into orbit from Florida’s Space Coast this afternoon (October 30).
A Falcon 9 rocket carrying 23 Starlink spacecraft lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station today at 5:10 PM EDT (2110 GMT).
The Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage returned to Earth for a vertical landing about eight minutes after liftoff as planned. It landed on the SpaceX “A Shortfall of Gravitas” drone, which was stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.
This was the 14th launch and landing of this particular booster, according to A SpaceX mission description.
The Falcon 9 rocket’s upper stage continued its journey skyward. It will deploy 23 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) about 64 minutes after liftoff, if all goes according to plan.
SpaceX has already launched more than 100 Falcon 9 missions in 2024, about two-thirds of which are dedicated to building the massive Starlink constellation.
Elon Musk’s company currently operates nearly 6,500 Starlink satellites in low Earth orbit, and more are rising all the time, as today’s liftoff shows.
Elmore Leonard writes for Bjournal, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, reliable reporting and useful information, helping readers stay informed about current events, emerging trends, and stories that matter.
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