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Starlink internet satellites
In a remarkable display of efficiency, SpaceX conducted its second Starlink satellite launch within a span of just over four hours. The Falcon 9 rocket, carrying 23 Starlink internet satellites, took off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 12:09 a.m. EDT (0409 GMT or 9:09 p.m. PDT on March 10 local time). News Form Space.Com
This mission closely followed another Starlink launch earlier from Florida’s Space Coast, marking a significant achievement for SpaceX’s rapid launch capabilities. The Falcon 9’s first stage, set to make its 17th launch and landing, is expected to return to Earth approximately 8.25 minutes after liftoff. The precise vertical landing is planned on the SpaceX droneship “Of Course I Still Love You,” stationed in the Pacific Ocean. Notably, 11 out of the booster’s 16 missions have been dedicated to Starlink deployments.
The upper stage of the Falcon 9 will continue its journey towards low Earth orbit (LEO), where it will release the 23 Starlink satellites approximately 62 minutes after liftoff. Starlink, SpaceX’s broadband megaconstellation, plays a crucial role in delivering internet services worldwide.
As of now, there are nearly 5,500 operational Starlink satellites in LEO, with plans for ongoing expansion. SpaceX has obtained approval to deploy 12,000 Starlink satellites and has submitted applications for an additional 30,000, underscoring the company’s commitment to extending global internet coverage.
