SpaceX is set to launch 24 additional Starlink satellites from Florida's Space Coast on Monday, November 11. The launch will take place at 4:02 p.m. EST (2102 GMT) from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Initially scheduled for Sunday, the launch was postponed due to adverse weather conditions affecting the recovery process. This mission will contribute to expanding SpaceX's Starlink network, aimed at providing global internet coverage.
Details of the Mission
The Falcon 9 rocket, carrying the 24 Starlink satellites, will lift off during a four-hour launch window. According to SpaceX, the rocket's first stage is expected to return to Earth around eight minutes after launch. A vertical landing will take place on the droneship "A Shortfall of Gravitas," which will be positioned in the Atlantic Ocean. This particular Falcon 9 booster will be making its 12th flight, having previously flown on 11 missions, including five dedicated to Starlink deployments.
Once the first stage has separated, the upper stage of the rocket will continue its journey to low Earth orbit (LEO). The satellites are scheduled to deploy about 65 minutes after liftoff.
Ongoing Starlink Expansion
This mission is part of SpaceX's ongoing efforts to expand the Starlink constellation, which currently has over 6,500 active satellites in orbit. With nearly 70% of SpaceX's 2024 Falcon 9 missions dedicated to Starlink launches, the company continues to bolster its global internet service. The Starlink network plays a crucial role in providing internet access to remote and underserved regions worldwide.
Previous and Upcoming Launches
SpaceX's most recent Starlink launch occurred on November 9, 2024, from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. As the company continues to focus on satellite deployment, more launches are expected in the coming months to further expand the Starlink constellation
