SpaceX is launching 23 more Starlink satellites from Florida
A mission to launch 23 Starlink internet satellites will be conducted by SpaceX from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida during the early hours of Monday, November 25, 2024. The Falcon 9 rocket is expected to lift off at 4:35 a.m. EST. within a 3.5 hour launch window according to several reports. Twelve of the satellites are equipped with direct-to-smartphone technology, which represents a significant improvement to the Starlink network.
Live coverage and booster recovery
The event will be streamed live by SpaceX on X and will begin approximately five minutes before the scheduled launch. Should the mission go as planned, the Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage will successfully return to Earth about eight minutes after launch and land on the Just Read the Instructions droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. This mission marks the 13th flight and landing for the booster, with six of the previous flights also dedicated to Starlink launches. according to to SpaceX’s mission briefing.
Deployment of satellites
The Falcon 9 upper stage will continue its journey to place the 23 satellites in low Earth orbit. The deployment is expected to take place approximately 65 minutes after launch. These additions will add to the rapidly growing Starlink constellation, which currently consists of more than 6,600 active satellites.
Meaning of the Starlink Network
Developed by SpaceX, Starlink is considered the largest satellite constellation ever assembled. According to several sources, growth continues continuously, with nearly 70 percent of SpaceX’s 115 Falcon 9 launches in 2024 dedicated to expanding this network. Starlink aims to provide high-speed internet access worldwide, including in remote areas.
As SpaceX continues its ambitious deployment schedule, the mission underscores the company’s commitment to advancing global connectivity through satellite technology.
