SpaceX successfully launched 28 new Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit early Wednesday morning, June 18. The mission lifted off at 1:55 a.m. EDT (0555 GMT) from Cape Canaveral’s Space Launch Complex 40. These satellites, part of Group 10-18, are scheduled to deploy about an hour after launch.
Just eight minutes into the flight, the Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage landed on the droneship Just Read the Instructions in the Atlantic Ocean. This marked the fifth successful flight and landing for Booster B1090. The company continues to showcase the efficiency of its reusable rocket system.
Wednesday’s mission came only two days after another Starlink launch from Vandenberg Space Force Station in California. That flight sent 26 satellites into orbit. With the latest launch, SpaceX now has more than 7,777 operational Starlink satellites circling the planet.
The Starlink program aims to deliver global broadband internet coverage, especially in rural and underserved areas. SpaceX holds approval to launch 12,000 satellites and has requested permission to deploy over 34,000. If granted, this would create one of the largest satellite constellations ever assembled.
The rapid reuse of Falcon 9 rockets helps cut launch costs while accelerating network expansion. This has allowed SpaceX to lead the commercial satellite sector. Each launch adds capacity to improve coverage and reduce latency for Starlink users around the world.
By keeping satellites in low Earth orbit, SpaceX ensures faster internet speeds and lower signal delays. These features offer a critical advantage over traditional satellite systems in geostationary orbit, which sit much farther from Earth.
SpaceX plans to continue frequent launches as it grows the Starlink network. Each batch brings technical upgrades, improving performance and sustainability. The company remains committed to refining satellite technology while expanding access to high-speed internet on a global scale.
READ: SpaceX to Launch 23 Starlink Satellites from Florida Friday
