SpaceX launches two back to back Falcon 9 flights

On October 15, 2024, SpaceX launched two back-to-back Falcon 9 flights into orbit to deploy Starlink communication and Direct to Cell satellites.

The first mission lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida with 23 Starlink satellites. This was the first full-fledged Falcon 9 mission since the Crew-9 Dragon launch on September 28.

Surprisingly, the company decided to conduct a follow-up mission from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandeberg Space Force Base in California.

The payload of this flight included 20 Starlink satellites with 13 Direct to Cell capabilities.

Nine Merlin engines at full power and liftoff of Falcon 9! pic.twitter.com/Cyvm21kZdD

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) October 15, 2024

After stage separation, the first stage for the second launch landed on a droneship stationed in the Pacific Ocean.

With this mission, the booster wrapped up its 19th flight and previously supported NROL-87, NROL-85, SARah-1, SWOT, Transporter-9, NROL-146, and 11 Starlink missions.

Falcon 9’s first stage booster lands for the 19th time ahead of recovery and refurbishment for its next mission pic.twitter.com/I7LO8wLWmK

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) October 15, 2024

(source)