On November 5, 2023, at 8:31 p.m. EST (01:31 GMT on November 6), SpaceX achieved a remarkable milestone by extending its single-year launch record once again. A Falcon 9 rocket successfully lifted off from Space Launch Complex-40 at Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, carrying 29 of SpaceX's Starlink internet satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO). This launch marked the 141st Falcon 9 liftoff of 2023 and the company's overall 146th launch for the year.
SpaceX has continually increased its launch cadence since 2019, when it conducted only 13 orbital flights. The year 2024 saw a significant rise, with 138 missions launched, including 134 orbital flights and four suborbital test flights of the Starship megarocket. The consistent growth in launches underscores SpaceX's commitment to expanding its operations and capabilities in space.
This year alone, SpaceX has conducted five suborbital test flights of its Starship, showcasing the company's innovative approach and readiness to push the boundaries of space exploration.
One of the primary drivers behind the surge in Falcon 9 launches has been the expansion of the Starlink megaconstellation. Over 100 of this year's flights have been dedicated to deploying Starlink satellites, highlighting the importance of this project in SpaceX's overall strategy. The goal of Starlink is to provide global high-speed internet coverage, and each launch brings the company closer to achieving that vision.
Today's launch featured the fifth flight of Falcon 9's first stage, specifically booster designated B1094. This booster has an impressive track record, having previously launched three missions to the International Space Station (ISS)—two of which were crewed missions—along with the Starlink 12-10 mission. Following the successful stage separation, B1094 executed precise deceleration and landing burns, ultimately safely touching down on SpaceX's Just Read the Instructions droneship, which was stationed in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 8.5 minutes after liftoff.
As SpaceX continues to break records and push the boundaries of space travel, the future looks bright for both the company and its ambitious projects, particularly the ongoing development of Starlink and further advancements in rocket technology.
