SpaceX launched 24 additional Starlink broadband satellites into orbit on August 30, 2025. The mission took place at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, with a Falcon 9 rocket lifting off at 12:59 a.m. EDT (03:59 GMT; 9:59 p.m. local time on August 29).
The Falcon 9’s first stage, designated as Booster 1082, successfully returned to Earth approximately 8.5 minutes after launch, landing on the SpaceX drone ship named “Of Course I Still Love You.” This mission marks the 15th successful flight and landing for Booster 1082, according to SpaceX. While this achievement is notable, it falls short of the company’s reuse record of 30 missions, which was set just two days earlier on August 28 during another Starlink launch.
SpaceX plans to deploy the 24 satellites into low Earth orbit approximately 62.5 minutes after launch if all proceeds according to plan. This flight represents the 107th Falcon 9 launch in 2025, with over 70% of these missions dedicated to expanding the Starlink megaconstellation. Currently, this vast network comprises more than 8,200 operational satellites, making it the largest satellite assemblage ever constructed.
Overview of Recent Missions
Booster 1082 has played a significant role in numerous missions, including previous launches for the US Space Force and the National Reconnaissance Office. Its continued reliability showcases SpaceX’s commitment to reusability, a key aspect of reducing the costs associated with space travel.
In addition to the Starlink missions, SpaceX has successfully conducted four test flights of its Starship rocket this year. The most recent test flight occurred on August 26, demonstrating the company’s ongoing efforts to develop this fully reusable spacecraft aimed at facilitating human exploration of the moon and Mars.
The impressive pace of SpaceX’s launches underscores its leadership in the commercial space sector. With each successful mission, the company not only enhances global internet access through Starlink but also paves the way for future interplanetary endeavors.
As the Starlink network expands, it continues to raise discussions around its impact on astronomy and satellite operations. The ongoing deployments represent a significant step toward providing high-speed internet access to underserved regions worldwide, further solidifying SpaceX’s position as a pioneer in the aerospace industry.