SpaceX
SpaceX launches 20 Starlink satellites from Florida (July 3, 2024)
On Wednesday, July 3, 2024, SpaceX launched 20 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit using a Falcon 9 reusable rocket.
The payload includes 13 Direct to Cell and 7 Starlink communication satellites. With the latest deployment, SpaceX now operating more than 100 Direct to Cell satellites in orbit.
The rocket lifted off from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. After engine cutoff, the first stage maneuvered back to the targeted zone and landed on a droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.
Falcon 9 launches 20 @Starlink satellites to orbit from Florida, including 13 with Direct to Cell capabilities. These satellites act as cellphone towers in space, eliminating deadzones without phone modifications or special apps pic.twitter.com/DXTaCokOyE
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) July 3, 2024
This was the 16th flight for the booster stage and previously supported SES-22, ispace HAKUTO-R MISSION 1, Amazonas-6, CRS-27, Bandwagon-1, and 10 Starlink missions.