SpaceX launches 26 Starlink satellites from California

Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This mission utilized the Falcon 9 rocket, designated as booster B1088-6, marking the 56th flight of the Falcon 9 in that calendar year . The launch is part of SpaceX's ongoing efforts to expand its Starlink constellation, which aims to provide global internet coverage and bridge connectivity gaps across underserved regions .

Florida that placed an additional 28 Starlink satellites into orbit. Together, these launches accounted for a remarkable total of 54 satellites deployed within a mere 24-hour timeframe .

Backup opportunities are available until 7:08 p.m. Monday or, if needed, beginning at 6:13 p.m. Tuesday.

The first-stage booster has been used on five previous missions, including one Starlink mission and the NROL-126, Transporter-12, SPHEREx and NROL-57 missions.

For the upcoming launch, SpaceX's 230-foot Falcon 9 rocket will once again help deliver the payload of internet-beaming Starlink satellites for deployment into what's called low-Earth orbit – an altitude that allows for things like satellites to circle Earth fairly quickly.

SpaceX launches, the liftoff will be livestreamed. But the rocket launch will also be widely visible for many spectators across both California and even neighboring Arizona.

Monday night's launch was the 56th Falcon 9 mission of 2025. Thirty-nine of those flights have been devoted to building the Starlink megaconstellation, by far the largest spacecraft network ever assembled.

Those launch numbers changed again just a few hours after this mission went in the books: SpaceX launched another Starlink mission, this one from Florida's Space Coast, early Tuesday morning (May 13).

This rapid deployment reflects SpaceX's commitment to innovation and efficiency in aerospace technology. The successful recovery of the Falcon 9 booster on the *Of Course I Still Love You* droneship further exemplifies their advancements in reusable rocket technology . As such missions continue to unfold, they will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of global communications.

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Sarah H

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