SpaceX kicks off Sunday with another space launch today, sending more Starlink satellites to orbit from California’s coast. The mission also carries classified military satellites for the U.S. Space Force.
Launch
Agency
Country
Falcon 9 — Starlink Group 17-43
| Agency | SpaceX |
| Rocket | Falcon 9 Block 5 |
| Payload | 21 Starlink satellites + 2 military Starshield satellites |
| Orbit | Low Earth Orbit |
| Launch Site | Space Launch Complex 4E, Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA |
| Time (UTC) | 04:24 |
| Status | GO – All systems ready for launch |
This launch continues SpaceX’s rapid deployment of its Starlink internet constellation. The mission carries 21 standard Starlink satellites that will provide high-speed internet coverage around the globe.
Hidden among the regular satellites are two special Starshield spacecraft for the U.S. military. These classified satellites use Starlink technology but serve national security purposes instead of civilian internet service.
Booster
First stage B1097 will attempt its 10th flight today after a quick 26-day turnaround. The booster will try to land on the drone ship “Of Course I Still Love You” in the Pacific Ocean.
What to Watch For
- B1097’s milestone 10th flight – pushing SpaceX closer to its reusability goals
- The secretive Starshield satellites riding alongside civilian Starlink spacecraft
- Another step toward SpaceX’s goal of global internet coverage from space
Today’s rocket launch adds to the busy constellation deployment efforts happening worldwide. According to SpaceNews, China’s Qianfan constellation also hit 200 satellites this week, showing the global race to build internet networks in space. The competition is heating up as companies rush to claim the best orbital spots for their satellite fleets.
Sources & Credibility
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98/100
SpaceX Official Launch Page
— SpaceX · Launch Provider · Official company launch information
Scoring factors: Primary source (+); Launch provider authority (+); Real-time mission data (+); Direct company communication (+) -
89/100
Qianfan constellation deployment hits 200 satellites with Long March 8 and 6A launches
— SpaceNews · Space Journalism · Leading space industry trade publication since 1989
Scoring factors: 35+ year track record (+); Industry-focused editorial staff (+); Primary reporting on policy and contracts (+); Trade publication accountability (+)