devxlogo

Falcon 9 launches 20 Starlink satellites

Why Trust Us
Falcon Starlink

SpaceX launched 20 Starlink satellites into orbit on Friday from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

The satellites were carried by a Falcon 9 rocket, which lifted off at 6:50 a.m. Pacific Time from Space Launch Complex 4 East. The mission, called Starlink 9-17, included 13 satellites equipped with Direct to Cell capabilities.

These satellites aim to enhance communication directly to cell phones, expanding the utility of the Starlink network.

Shortly after the launch, the Falcon 9’s first-stage booster successfully landed on the “Of Course I Still Love You” droneship stationed in the Pacific Ocean.

Starlink mission bolsters satellite network

This marked the 13th flight and landing for this particular booster, which had previously supported various missions, including Transporter-11, SDA-0A, and several other Starlink launches. SpaceX later confirmed the successful deployment of all 20 satellites into their intended orbits. This launch signifies another crucial step in the company’s efforts to expand its satellite internet constellation and provide more robust internet connectivity worldwide.

The launch had initially been scheduled for Wednesday but was delayed to Friday due to technical and weather-related issues.

Despite the postponements, many spectators gathered at optimal vantage points to witness the event, while others followed the live countdown and video feed provided by SpaceX on its website. This mission took place while SpaceX’s Florida launch pads were occupied with preparations for upcoming NASA missions, including the Europa Clipper mission to Jupiter’s moon Europa and the Crew-9 mission to the International Space Station.

Disclosure
devxblackblue

About Our Editorial Process

At DevX, we’re dedicated to tech entrepreneurship. Our team closely follows industry shifts, new products, AI breakthroughs, technology trends, and funding announcements. Articles undergo thorough editing to ensure accuracy and clarity, reflecting DevX’s style and supporting entrepreneurs in the tech sphere.

See our full editorial policy.

About Our Journalist

Cameron Wiggins

Cameron is a highly regarded contributor in the rapidly evolving fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. His articles delve into the theoretical underpinnings of AI, the practical applications of machine learning across industries, ethical considerations of autonomous systems, and the societal impacts of these disruptive technologies.
View Author
Show More