SpaceX successfully launched 26 Starlink satellites into orbit on Monday night (May 12) from California. This mission marked the first part of a spaceflight doubleheader for the company.
Launch Details
At 9:15 p.m. EDT (6:15 p.m. local time in California; 0115 GMT on May 13), a Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base, located on California’s central coast. The rocket carried 26 Starlink satellites aimed at expanding SpaceX’s growing satellite internet network.
Approximately eight minutes after launch, the Falcon 9’s first stage made a successful landing on the drone ship “Of Course I Still Love You,” stationed in the Pacific Ocean. This landing was part of SpaceX’s ongoing efforts to reuse rockets and reduce the cost of space missions. Notably, this was the sixth flight for this particular booster.
Satellite Deployment
Following the rocket’s return to Earth, the Falcon 9’s upper stage continued its journey into low Earth orbit (LEO). About 65 minutes after liftoff, the 26 Starlink satellites were deployed into their intended orbit.
This mission was the 56th Falcon 9 flight of 2025, with 39 of those launches dedicated to expanding the Starlink megaconstellation. This network, now the largest of its kind, aims to provide global satellite internet coverage.
A Busy Week for SpaceX
This launch was only the first of two planned missions for SpaceX this week. Just a few hours after the Falcon 9 mission from California, another batch of Starlink satellites was launched from Florida’s Space Coast early on May 13. The second launch continues SpaceX’s commitment to rapidly expanding its satellite internet capabilities.
SpaceX’s Starlink program has been critical in connecting remote areas worldwide, offering internet access to regions that are typically underserved by traditional broadband services. The growing network of satellites will increase coverage and bandwidth, improving service for millions of users.
What’s Next for Starlink?
SpaceX plans to continue launching Starlink satellites regularly. The goal is to build a large, reliable network that can support a variety of services, including broadband internet, GPS, and potentially even telecommunications for future missions.
As of now, the Starlink constellation is already providing internet coverage in multiple countries and has become an essential tool for rural communities and businesses in remote locations.
Looking Ahead
SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of space exploration, with more launches and missions scheduled in the coming months. The rapid growth of the Starlink network is expected to play a significant role in the company’s future, both in terms of revenue generation and technological advancement.
This week’s dual launches highlight SpaceX’s ability to execute ambitious space missions while maintaining a consistent launch schedule. With each successful mission, the company moves closer to its vision of providing worldwide internet coverage and expanding humanity’s reach in space.
