On Thursday, SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, successfully deploying 29 Starlink internet satellites into low Earth orbit. The rocket lifted off at 6:31 p.m. EST (2331 GMT) from Space Launch Complex 40 at the Space Force Station, carrying another batch of the company’s broadband satellites. The launch was visible against the cold Florida evening sky, with the Falcon 9’s distinctive white first stage and black booster centralizer and fairing standing out as it ascended.
The mission launched even though there was just a 60% probability of suitable weather during the launch window. SpaceX's rocket successfully made a propulsive landing on the droneship "A Shortfall of Gravitas" in the Atlantic Ocean a few minutes after detaching from the rocket's second stage.
Nine minutes after liftoff, Falcon 9’s second stage deployed the satellites. The rocket will later reignite its upper stage to place them into their final orbit. Once in position, the Starlink Group 6-100 satellites will deploy, power up their solar panels, and run system checks before beginning operations.
With over 9,500 satellites already in orbit, SpaceX’s Starlink aims to deliver fast internet globally, including to remote areas and even in-flight Wi-Fi and direct-to-satellite phones. This latest launch adds another batch to the expanding network, supporting Starlink’s goal of connecting underserved regions.
Thursday marked SpaceX's eighth launch of 2026 and the 591st Falcon 9 launch in total. Since the Falcon 9's debut in 2010, SpaceX has consistently launched these rockets annually. The company appears committed to maintaining this streak, with additional Starlink launches already planned.