SpaceX
SpaceX launches first ever 21st booster flight
Last week, SpaceX launched a new Falcon 9 mission to deliver 23 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit from Florida and marked the first-ever 21st booster liftoff and landing.
In the past few months, SpaceX has continuously exceeded the ceiling of 20 reusable flights for the first-stage booster. However, the company has moved beyond this number for internal reasons. After the launch of the Galileo L12 mission, SpaceX confirmed that it is working on a qualifying fleet of Falcon boosters and fairings to support 40 missions each.
This will be a significant improvement in Falcon 9 mission capabilities. Not only that but it will also improve the vehicle’s suitability for more missions and contribute to a positive impact on the environment.
SpaceX Falcon 9 Liftoff from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida (Image Source – SpaceX)
Mission Detail
The launch liftoff from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Following stage separation, the first stage landed on a droneship stationed in the sea.
Liftoff! pic.twitter.com/caAsrsKUyH
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 18, 2024
Falcon 9 completes its first 21st launch and landing! pic.twitter.com/m77JbAdNKJ
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 18, 2024
