SpaceX reached a significant milestone on August 28, 2025, as its Falcon 9 booster, B1067, completed its 30th mission. The rocket lifted off from Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 4:12 a.m. EDT, carrying 28 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit for the Starlink 10-11 mission.
This launch not only expanded SpaceX's global internet constellation but also highlighted the increasing reliability and cost-effectiveness of reusable launch vehicles. Booster B1067 has now flown a record-breaking 30 times, demonstrating the robust capabilities of SpaceX's reusable technology. The booster's previous missions include support for critical flights such as CRS-22, Crew-3, and numerous Starlink deployments.
Following a successful ascent and stage separation, the first stage booster executed a precise landing on the droneship "A Shortfall of Gravitas" in the Atlantic Ocean. This landing reinforces SpaceX's commitment to reducing the cost of space access. The Starlink 10-11 mission is a key step in SpaceX's objective to provide widespread global internet connectivity.
SpaceX's advancements in reusable rocket technology are fundamentally reshaping the economics of spaceflight. Reusable rockets can reduce launch costs significantly, making space more accessible. Estimates suggest costs as low as $1,600–$2,000 per kilogram to Low Earth Orbit for reusable Falcon 9 rockets, a substantial reduction compared to expendable vehicles. This economic advantage is crucial for the continued expansion of satellite constellations like Starlink.
The company's dedication to reusability extends beyond the first stage, with ongoing development aimed at making upper stages and payload fairings reusable. SpaceX's long-term vision includes achieving rapid reuse, potentially preparing boosters for subsequent flights within hours. This continuous refinement of reusable technology is increasing launch frequency and driving down costs, fostering a more dynamic space industry.
The success of booster B1067's 30th flight is a testament to the meticulous refurbishment processes and design improvements that have made such a feat possible, proving the resilience and reliability of these advanced systems. Each successful reuse saves millions in production costs and accelerates the pace of space missions, paving the way for more frequent satellite deployments and ambitious interplanetary endeavors.