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SpaceX Dominates Space This Week: Starlink Launches and Booster Milestones

SpaceX Dominates Space This Week: Starlink Launches and Booster Milestones

SpaceX has had a busy week, solidifying its position as a leader in space technology and satellite deployment. From launching numerous Starlink satellites to achieving impressive booster reusability milestones, the company continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and internet accessibility.

Early Wednesday, May 28, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket soared into the Florida sky from Kennedy Space Center Pad 39A at 9:30 a.m. The mission carried yet another batch of Starlink internet satellites, designed to provide internet access to remote corners of the globe. According to Florida Today, the Space Force's 45th Weather Squadron accurately predicted favorable weather conditions, ensuring a smooth launch.

Graphic showing the general outline for SpaceX's rocket landing on a droneship at sea.
Graphic showing the general outline for SpaceX's rocket landing on a droneship at sea.

The Falcon 9 first stage booster, designated B1080, successfully landed on the drone ship "Just Read the Instructions" stationed in the Atlantic Ocean, marking its 19th flight. To put that in perspective, this booster has supported 12 previous Starlink missions, as well as Axiom's Ax-2 and Ax-3 missions, the Euclid space telescope launch, CRS-30, SES ASTRA 1P, and NG-21. This level of reusability is a testament to SpaceX's engineering prowess and its commitment to reducing the cost of space travel.

This latest launch marked the 64th Falcon 9 mission of 2025, with 47 of those dedicated to expanding the Starlink constellation. With over 7,500 operational satellites already in orbit, Starlink continues to grow, providing vital internet services to underserved areas.

Adding to its impressive week, SpaceX also launched 24 Starlink satellites into a polar orbit from California on Monday. This particular mission, Starlink 17-1, launched from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base. The Falcon 9 booster used for this polar orbit mission, tail number 1082, completed its 13th flight, further highlighting the company's dedication to reusability. The booster landed on the droneship, 'Of Course I Still Love You,' marking the 132nd touchdown on that vessel and the 452nd booster landing to date.

SpaceX's rapid launch cadence and reusable rocket technology are transforming the economics of space access. The company's ability to quickly deploy and replenish the Starlink constellation is a game-changer for global internet connectivity.

What do you think about SpaceX's dominance in the space industry? How will their advances in reusable rocket technology shape the future of space exploration and commercialization? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Where is SpaceX launching today?

Update May 27, 8:42 p.m. EDT (0042 GMT): SpaceX launched Flight Test 9 of its Super Heavy Starship rocket at 7:37 p.m. EDT (2337 GMT; 6:37 p.m. local time in Starbase, Texas).

Where is the Starship launch today?

The SpaceX Starship rocket launches from Starbase, Texas, as seen from South Padre Island on Tuesday.

How are Starlink satellites launched?

SpaceX used Falcon 9 booster, tail number 1082, to launch this mission, which made its 13th flight. Its previously flew NROl-145, USSF-62, OneWeb Launch 20 and nine other batches of Starlink satellites.

What time is Starship launching today?

Today's launch window opens at 7:30 p.m. ET and will last 60 minutes. If, for whatever reason, there is a delay or scrub, SpaceX has said it has other launch opportunities in the coming days.

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