It marked the 134th successful launch of SpaceX, a new record after falling just short of 100 in 2023. It also marked the 16th flight for the first stage booster supporting the mission. Their usable first stages and their automated return allowed SpaceX to turn around launches so quickly.
SpaceX confirmed the deployment of the 21 Starlink satellites into lower Earth orbit at 1:44 a.m., EDT. Officials said 13 of the satellites have "direct to cellphone" capabilities.
The Space Force's 45th Weather Squadron had predicted a 90% chance of "go for launch" before the flight based on weather conditions. Cumulus clouds in the area never posed the potential threat some had feared.
It marked SpaceX's third launch in three days, following a Starlink launch at the Vanderberg Space Force Station in California and the four-satellite deployment for Astranis at Cape Canaveral.
| The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, is Copyright 1995-2026 Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principles for news reporting and research purposes. |
