SpaceX Falcon 9 Lands Near The Bahamas for First Time After Starlink Launch

A Falcon 9 rocket carrying 23 Starlink satellites was launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on February 18 at 6:22 p.m. EST. The mission marked a big milestone for SpaceX because the rocket’s first stage efficiently landed on the droneship Just Read the Instructions, positioned off the coast of The Bahamas. The touchdown, a primary for the area, follows a latest settlement between SpaceX and The Bahamas, which expands the corporate’s operational scope for brand spanking new orbital trajectories.

New Agreement with The Bahamas

According to a statement launched by SpaceX on February 7 by way of X, the collaboration with The Bahamas will allow Falcon 9 to entry new orbital paths. Traditionally, the corporate has stationed its droneships within the open ocean, however this shift signifies a broader technique aimed toward optimising launch and restoration operations. The transfer is anticipated to enhance effectivity and supply further launch choices.

Deputy Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Isaac Chester Cooper, highlighted the importance of the occasion throughout SpaceX’s dwell stream, stating that the primary worldwide touchdown in Exuma Sound represented a significant step ahead for the nation. He emphasised that the event positions The Bahamas inside the aerospace business and provides alternatives for progress within the sector.

Falcon 9’s Reusability Milestone

As reported by Space.com, the booster used for this mission, recognized as B1080, has now accomplished its sixteenth flight. Out of its earlier 15 missions, 9 have been Starlink-related. The skill to reuse boosters a number of instances is a key aspect of SpaceX’s cost-reduction technique, contributing to the corporate’s excessive launch frequency.