Mission Overview
Reports point out that the Falcon 9 rocket carried 21 Starlink broadband satellites into low Earth orbit. Thirteen of those satellites are stated to characteristic direct-to-cell capabilities, enhancing connectivity in distant areas. The mission was initially scheduled for December 30 at 1:02 a.m. EST however was delayed because of launch preparations.
The Falcon 9 booster used for this mission, designated B1078, has now accomplished its sixteenth flight. Previous missions supported by this booster included Crew-6, USSF-124, and 11 Starlink missions. Sources affirm that the booster efficiently landed on the droneship “Just Read the Instructions” stationed within the Atlantic Ocean, marking the 104th touchdown on this specific vessel and the 390th general in SpaceX’s historical past.
A Record-Setting Year
As reported by satellite tv for pc tracker Jonathan McDowell, over 6,850 lively satellites are actually a part of the Starlink constellation, establishing it because the world’s largest satellite tv for pc community. This remaining mission capped a 12 months of milestones, together with 89 Starlink-specific launches.
Looking Ahead to 2025
SpaceX is reportedly aiming to extend its launch cadence in 2025. Planned missions embrace two business astronaut flights—Fram-2 and Ax-4—and two crew rotations for NASA and its companions. The firm can also be anticipated to broaden its buyer base whereas persevering with to develop its Starlink constellation.
