SpaceX recently launched 28 new Starlink satellites into orbit as part of its ongoing efforts to expand its satellite internet service. The launch took place from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, utilizing a Falcon 9 rocket designated for this mission. This launch marked a major milestone as it included the largest batch of Starlink V2 Mini satellites ever deployed in a single mission, surpassing the previous record of 27 satellites.
Background on Starlink
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX, aimed at providing high-speed internet access to underserved and remote areas around the globe. The project was first announced in January 2015, with the goal of deploying thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) to create a global broadband network. Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, has indicated that the ultimate vision for Starlink includes deploying up to 42,000 satellites, significantly expanding the current capabilities of satellite internet.
Technical details of the launch
The Falcon 9 rocket used for this mission was equipped with a first-stage booster that has previously supported multiple missions, including resupply missions to the International Space Station and other satellite launches. After successfully deploying the satellites, the booster landed on the droneship “Just Read the Instructions,” marking the 113th successful landing of a Falcon 9 booster on this platform.
The Starlink V2 Mini satellites launched in this mission feature advanced technology, including a Doppio Dualband antenna and optimized systems for better performance. Moreover, these enhancements allow for a greater number of satellites to be launched per mission, with the capacity to deploy up to 29 satellites in future launches.
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Impact and future plans
Moreover, as of late March 2025, there are approximately 7,135 Starlink satellites in orbit, with 7,105 operational. The deployment of these satellites has raised concerns among astronomers regarding light pollution and the potential for increased collision risks in space. Also, the bright reflections from these satellites can interfere with astronomical observations, prompting discussions within the scientific community about mitigating these impacts.
Looking ahead, SpaceX further plans to continue expanding the Starlink constellation, with larger Starlink V3 satellites expected to be launched once the Starship rocket becomes operational. In addition, this expansion is part of SpaceX’s broader strategy to capture a significant share of the global internet connectivity market, which is estimated to be worth over $1 trillion.
