In an exciting development for satellite internet technology, SpaceX launched another batch of 26 Starlink satellites early Friday morning from California. The liftoff took place at 6:43 a.m. PDT (9:43 a.m. EDT, 1343 UTC) from the Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base. This mission marks a significant milestone as SpaceX has now successfully launched over 1,000 of its broadband internet satellites within this year alone.
The Starlink 15-5 mission not only adds to SpaceX's growing constellation of satellites but also represents the 20th orbital launch from California in 2023. Interestingly, the launch proceeded smoothly despite a nearby wildfire that had spread across 27 acres. Fortunately, the fire was contained and did not pose any risk to the launch operations.
The mission utilized the Falcon 9 first stage booster B1093, which successfully completed its second flight. This booster had previously launched from Vandenberg just 39 days earlier during the Starlink 11-11 mission. A little over eight minutes after liftoff, B1093 made a successful landing on the drone ship named ‘Of Course I Still Love You,’ which was stationed in the Pacific Ocean. This successful landing marked the 130th for that particular vessel and the impressive 448th booster landing achieved by SpaceX to date.
SpaceX confirmed a successful separation of the 26 optimized Starlink satellites just over an hour after launch. Each satellite is designed to enhance the overall performance of the Starlink network, providing high-speed internet access to underserved areas around the globe. This launch further solidifies SpaceX's position as a leader in satellite internet technology and signifies the company's commitment to expanding global connectivity.
The successful launch of these 26 Starlink satellites underscores SpaceX's relentless pursuit of innovation in the field of broadband internet. As they continue to expand their satellite network, the company is paving the way for improved internet access worldwide. Keep an eye on SpaceX as they plan future launches that will further enhance the Starlink constellation.
