By Michael Specter
Falcon 9 Rocket Achieves Record-Breaking Milestone with Latest Mission
On December 4, 2024, SpaceX achieved another significant milestone with the successful launch of 24 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The launch took place at 5:13 a.m. EST from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The mission, designated Starlink-213 / Starlink 6-70, marks a continued expansion of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite constellation, enhancing global internet access with high-speed, low-latency connectivity.
Falcon 9’s Record-Breaking 24th Mission
The Falcon 9 rocket launched successfully on its record-breaking 24th mission, carrying 24 second-generation Starlink v2-mini satellites. These satellites are part of SpaceX’s plan to provide comprehensive global internet coverage through its growing constellation. The launch highlights SpaceX’s increasing capability to deploy and manage large-scale satellite constellations to improve broadband services worldwide.
Successful Booster Landing on Droneship
After completing its mission to deliver the payload to orbit, the Falcon 9’s first-stage booster made a successful landing on the SpaceX droneship, A Shortfall of Gravitas, stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. The booster touched down just over eight minutes after liftoff, marking a new achievement for the reusable rocket program. This was the 24th successful landing for Falcon 9 booster B1067, which had previously supported 23 other missions, including crewed and cargo flights, along with 12 Starlink missions.
Starlink’s Growing Global Reach
With this latest launch, Starlink continues to expand its reach, providing internet services to over 100 countries and territories globally. The new satellites will enhance Starlink’s ability to offer even faster, more reliable internet, supporting SpaceX’s mission to improve communication infrastructure worldwide. Starlink’s growing network is key to addressing the global demand for high-speed internet, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
Improving Internet Access for Remote Areas
Starlink’s expanding constellation is helping to bridge the digital divide, providing high-speed connectivity to regions that lack traditional internet infrastructure. The latest launch introduces Direct-to-Cell satellites, enabling mobile device connectivity even in areas without standard cellular networks. This development will allow users in remote locations to stream, make video calls, and play games with low latency, significantly improving mobile broadband services.
Starlink’s Portable Solutions for Global Connectivity
In addition to its growing satellite network, Starlink offers portable equipment designed to connect users quickly and efficiently, ideal for travelers. The company’s Roam service provides global access to users across multiple markets. With the world’s largest low-Earth orbit satellite constellation, Starlink is reshaping how satellite internet is delivered, ensuring reliable and fast connectivity for work, travel, and leisure in previously unconnected regions.
