SpaceX achieved a significant milestone on September 13, 2025, with the successful launch of a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, carrying 24 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit.
The launch, which occurred at 1:55 p.m. EDT, marked the 115th Falcon 9 liftoff of the year, with a substantial portion of these missions dedicated to expanding the Starlink constellation. Approximately 8.5 minutes after liftoff, the Falcon 9's first stage, designated B1071, executed a flawless landing on the SpaceX drone ship "Of Course I Still Love You" stationed in the Pacific Ocean. This marked the 28th successful flight and landing for this particular booster, a testament to SpaceX's advancements in rocket reusability and operational efficiency.
The upper stage of the Falcon 9 continued its journey, successfully deploying the 24 Starlink satellites into their designated orbits about 62.5 minutes after the initial liftoff. This deployment contributes to the Starlink network, which now comprises over 8,300 active spacecraft, representing the 300th Starlink mission undertaken by SpaceX. The Starlink network continues its rapid global expansion, now serving millions of customers worldwide and extending high-speed, low-latency internet access to numerous countries and underserved regions.
The Starlink constellation is more than just a collection of satellites; it's a burgeoning global infrastructure that facilitates connectivity, enabling new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. With millions of active users and ongoing performance enhancements, the network is bridging the digital divide, providing essential services to remote areas, and supporting sectors such as maritime and aviation. This consistent expansion and enhancement reflect a commitment to fostering global interconnectedness and empowering communities through accessible internet.
The successful deployment of these 24 satellites highlights SpaceX's remarkable launch cadence and its pivotal role in shaping the future of global communication. The consistent performance of boosters like B1071, coupled with the expanding reach of the Starlink network, demonstrates a forward-looking approach to connectivity, offering a reliable pathway for progress and broader access to information.