SpaceX launches 29 Starlink satellites, enhancing global satellite internet coverage
SpaceX launched 29 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral aboard Falcon 9, advancing global Starlink internet coverage.
SpaceX continues its rapid expansion of the Starlink satellite network with the successful launch of 29 new satellites. On Thursday, a Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, deploying the satellites into low Earth orbit as part of SpaceX's ongoing mission to deliver high-speed internet access across the globe.
The launch occurred at 6:31 p.m. EST (2331 GMT) from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Against the backdrop of a cold Florida evening, the Falcon 9 rocket ascended into the sky, its distinctive white first stage and black booster standing out.
Falcon 9 achieves another milestone
The Falcon 9 booster, labeled B1080, marked its 24th flight during this mission. Despite a relatively narrow 60% chance of favorable weather conditions during the launch window, the spacecraft performed flawlessly. Following stage separation, the rocket’s first stage completed a propulsive landing on the droneship "A Shortfall of Gravitas", stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.
Nine minutes after liftoff, the rocket’s second stage deployed the batch of Starlink satellites. The upper stage is expected to reignite later, ensuring the satellites reach their final orbital positions. Once in place, the satellites will activate their solar panels and conduct system checks before beginning operations.
Expanding Starlink's reach
This latest launch adds to the more than 9,500 satellites already in orbit as part of the Starlink network. SpaceX’s ambitious project aims to provide fast internet to underserved and remote regions, as well as enhance in-flight Wi-Fi and direct-to-satellite phone connectivity. Starlink plays a key role in bridging the digital divide by bringing connectivity to areas previously left out of traditional infrastructure.
A strong start to 2026
Thursday’s mission marked SpaceX’s eighth launch of 2026 and the 591st Falcon 9 launch since the rocket’s debut in 2010. The company has consistently maintained a high launch cadence over the years, with additional Starlink missions already lined up to further expand the network.
SpaceX’s relentless efforts highlight its commitment to revolutionizing global internet access, with Starlink continuing to underpin its vision of a more connected world.
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