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Space exploration firm SpaceX successfully launched another substantial group of Starlink internet satellites into orbit from Florida on Saturday night, marking a further expansion of its ambitious space-based communication network. The mission deployed the latest batch of spacecraft designed to bolster the Starlink constellation, aimed at providing global broadband internet access.
SpaceX Launches New Batch of Starlink Satellites
A Falcon 9 rocket, carrying 28 Starlink satellites, ascended from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Saturday at 11:07 p.m. EDT (0307 GMT on Sunday, April 6). This launch represents SpaceX’s continued efforts to expand its Starlink network and enhance global internet connectivity.
Falcon 9 Booster’s Remarkable Reusability
Approximately eight minutes post-launch, the Falcon 9’s first stage returned to Earth, executing a precise landing on the SpaceX drone ship “Just Read the Instructions,” stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. Notably, this mission marked the 19th successful launch and landing for this particular booster, underscoring the company’s commitment to rocket reusability, as detailed in the mission description.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launches 28 Starlink satellites from Florida on April 5, 2025.
Successful Deployment in Low Earth Orbit
The Falcon 9’s upper stage successfully deployed the Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) approximately one hour after liftoff, SpaceX confirmed via social media platform X. This precise deployment is crucial for the operational efficiency of the Starlink constellation.
Related Coverage: Observing Starlink satellite trains in the night sky
Long-exposure view of the April 5 Starlink launch.
Expanding the Starlink Megaconstellation
This recent launch marked the 39th Falcon 9 mission in 2025. A significant portion, approximately two-thirds, of these missions have been dedicated to the development of the Starlink megaconstellation. Starlink stands as the largest satellite network ever assembled, aiming to revolutionize global internet access.
Current Scale of Starlink Operations
SpaceX currently manages a constellation of over 7,100 operational Starlink satellites, according to satellite tracker Jonathan McDowell. This number is continuously increasing as SpaceX proceeds with its launch cadence to further populate the network.
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