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SpaceX Launches 46th Orbital Mission of the Year with Starlink Satellites
SpaceX achieved another milestone today with the successful launch of its 46th orbital mission of the year. A Falcon 9 rocket took off from Florida’s Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 2:14 p.m. EDT (1814 GMT), carrying 23 Starlink satellites toward low Earth orbit (LEO).
The highlight of the launch was the Falcon 9’s first stage returning to Earth as planned, landing on the droneship Just Read the Instructions stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. This marks the 15th successful launch and landing for this specific first stage, closing in on SpaceX’s record for booster reusability.
According to a SpaceX mission description, the Falcon 9’s upper stage is expected to deploy the 23 Starlink satellites into LEO approximately 65 minutes after liftoff. This launch adds to SpaceX’s impressive track record, with 46 orbital liftoffs already completed in 2024, and the 31st dedicated to expanding the Starlink broadband megaconstellation.
The Starlink network currently boasts more than 5,800 operational satellites, solidifying its position as a key player in the satellite internet market. With plans for continued expansion, the Starlink constellation will play a crucial role in providing global broadband coverage well into the future.
Upcoming Spaceflight Events
Tonight, Boeing is scheduled to launch astronauts aboard its Starliner capsule for the first time ever on the Crew Flight Test to the International Space Station for NASA. The launch is set for 10:34 p.m. EDT (0234 GMT on May 7) and will be livestreamed on Space.com, courtesy of NASA, offering an exciting opportunity to witness the latest milestone in human spaceflight.
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