SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Florida, successfully deploying 28 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit

On May 13, 2025, at 1:02 a.m. ET, SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, successfully deploying 28 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit, further advancing its mission to provide global internet coverage.

This mission marked the 28th flight for the first-stage booster B1067, setting a new record for rocket reuse. The booster had previously supported a diverse array of missions, including CRS-22, Crew-3, Turksat 5B, Crew-4, CRS-25, Eutelsat HOTBIRD 13G, O3B mPOWER-A, PSN SATRIA, Telkomsat Merah Putih 2, Galileo L13, Koreasat-6A, and 16 other Starlink missions.

The satellites deployed are likely V2 Mini Optimized models, equipped with advanced avionics and Optical Intersatellite Links (OISL). These joined SpaceX’s constellation of over 7,300 satellites, designed to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet worldwide.

The Starlink network already serves more than 100 countries, and this launch enhances connectivity, particularly for rural and remote regions, contributing to bridging the global digital divide.

This launch was the 52nd Falcon 9 mission of 2025, underscoring SpaceX’s unmatched launch cadence and leadership in the space industry.

Favorable weather conditions allowed for a stunning visual as the rocket soared over a thunderstorm, with images and videos of the event widely shared across social media platforms.

The dramatic ascent highlighted both the technical prowess and the awe-inspiring beauty of space exploration.

SpaceX’s reusable rocket technology has significantly reduced the cost of spaceflight, enabling frequent and cost-effective missions. This mission not only showcased the company’s engineering excellence but also reinforced Starlink’s pivotal role in shaping the future of global communications.

As SpaceX continues to expand its constellation, the Starlink network is poised to play a critical role in providing reliable internet access to underserved regions, advancing global connectivity.