SpaceX Expands Starlink Satellites Network with 24 More Launched from Vandenberg

SpaceX successfully executed another launch of its Starlink internet satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, aiming to expand its massive low Earth orbit constellation. The Falcon 9 rocket, lifting off at 10:04 a.m. PDT (1:04 p.m. EDT / 1704 UTC), delivered 24 Starlink V2 Mini satellites into orbit, marking the 27th such launch from Vandenberg this year. SpaceX announced the successful deployment of the satellites just over an hour post-launch via a social media post.

This mission continues to build upon SpaceX’s significant contributions to the Starlink program, with more than 1,800 satellites launched in 2025 alone. Such frequent launches underscore SpaceX's ongoing commitment to bolster their ever-growing satellite network, which has already established itself as the largest constellation to date with over 8,100 active satellites.

The Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage booster, marked B1081, has now completed its 17th flight. It returned safely to Earth, landing on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" stationed in the Pacific Ocean. This makes it the 146th successful booster landing on this vessel and the 491st overall.

Falcon 9 rockets have become a cornerstone of SpaceX’s launch operations, with this booster previously flying missions including NASA’s PACE, NASA’s TRACERS, and Crew-7, as well as other Starlink deployments. The effectiveness of Falcon 9 enables SpaceX to achieve an impressive cadence of launches, supporting both Starlink and a range of government and commercial missions from California and Florida.

With a streak of Starlink launches, SpaceX demonstrates its increasing launch capabilities and efficiency. They have managed to conduct 102 Falcon 9 missions in 2025, with over 70% dedicated to expanding the Starlink network. The continued success of these launches represents a pivotal step in SpaceX’s long-term strategy to enhance global broadband internet access through Starlink.

SpaceX’s milestones in 2025 have not only shown its prowess in orbital deliveries but have also set a new benchmark with its finished 100th Falcon 9 flight earlier in the week, adding momentum to their mission objectives. Notably, this ramp-up is mirrored by plans proposing an increase in annual launches to accommodate future ambitions. The commitment to increase launches, including from additional launch pads at Vandenberg, suggests SpaceX’s readiness to scale operations in alignment with regulatory approvals.

The continuous deployment and expansion of the Starlink satellite network remain critical to SpaceX’s plans. Aiding various sectors with enhanced internet connectivity, Starlink satellites operate closer to Earth, offering lower latency benefits ideal for high-speed data applications such as streaming, online gaming, and video conferencing.

As SpaceX continues to deliver payloads into orbit with remarkable frequency, the impact of these missions is set to expand the boundaries of commercial and government satellite operations, further cementing its role as a leader in the aerospace industry.