SpaceX launches two Starlink batches from East and West coasts
SpaceX launched Falcon 9 rockets from California and Florida carrying Starlink satellites on March 13–14, 2026.
SpaceX successfully deployed two batches of its Starlink satellites in a pair of back-to-back launches from opposite sides of the United States. The launches took place on March 13 and March 14, 2026, from California and Florida, respectively, further expanding the company’s growing satellite megaconstellation.
Dual-Launch Success Across Two Coasts
The first mission lifted off from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on March 13. A Falcon 9 rocket carried 25 Starlink satellites, designated Group 17-31, into low Earth orbit. Liftoff occurred at 10:57 a.m. EDT (7:57 a.m. PDT or 1457 GMT), with the satellites successfully deployed about an hour later.
The following day, another Falcon 9 rocket launched from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This mission carried 29 Starlink satellites, known as Group 10-48, which were also successfully placed into orbit. The launch occurred at 7:37 a.m. EDT (1137 GMT).
Reusable Rockets Land Safely
Both missions featured the recovery of their first-stage boosters, which landed on SpaceX’s ocean-based droneships. Booster 1071, used in the California launch, touched down on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" stationed in the Pacific Ocean. Booster 1095, which powered the Florida launch, landed on "Just Read the Instructions" in the Atlantic Ocean.
These successful landings marked yet another achievement in SpaceX’s continued efforts to reuse its rocket components. The company has completed 585 booster landings to date, according to its website.
Expanding the Starlink Constellation
With these two launches, SpaceX has added 54 new satellites to its Starlink constellation, bringing the total number of active satellites to 9,985. This data comes from satellite tracker Jonathan McDowell.
Starlink is SpaceX’s global internet service initiative, aimed at providing high-speed connectivity to underserved and remote regions. The recent launches reflect the company's sustained commitment to building and maintaining the network.
Milestones for SpaceX
The second launch of the weekend marked SpaceX’s 32nd mission of 2026. To date, the company has completed 625 missions, showcasing its dominant role in the private spaceflight sector.
These back-to-back launches highlight SpaceX’s ability to conduct frequent and complex operations efficiently, further solidifying its position as a leader in commercial space exploration and satellite deployment.
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