SpaceX Launches 26 Starlink Satellites: A Milestone Mission
On the evening of June 16, 2025, SpaceX achieved another significant milestone in its mission to expand global internet coverage. A Falcon 9 rocket launched 26 Starlink V2 Mini satellites into low Earth orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This mission, designated Starlink 15-9, marked the 200th orbital launch from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg, underscoring SpaceX's growing presence in space operations.
Mission Overview
Launch Details:
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Date & Time: June 16, 2025, at 8:36 p.m. PDT (11:36 p.m. EDT / 0336 UTC, June 17)
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Launch Site: Space Launch Complex 4 East, Vandenberg Space Force Base, California
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Rocket: Falcon 9 Block 5 (Booster B1093)
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Payload: 26 Starlink V2 Mini satellites
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Mission Name: Starlink 15-9
The Falcon 9 rocket's first stage, designated B1093, successfully completed its third flight. Previously, this booster had supported the Starlink 11-11 and Starlink 15-5 missions. Approximately eight and a half minutes after liftoff, the booster executed a successful landing on the drone ship "Of Course I Still Love You" stationed in the Pacific Ocean.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rocket Type | Falcon 9 Block 5 |
| Booster Number | B1093 |
| Flight Number | 3rd |
| Payload Mass | Approximately 15 metric tons |
| Orbit Achieved | Low Earth Orbit (LEO) |
| Deployment Time | ~8.5 minutes after liftoff |
| Booster Landing | Drone ship "Of Course I Still Love You" |
Global Observations
The launch was visible across various regions, captivating skywatchers. Observers in Southern California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah reported sightings of the Falcon 9's ascent, describing the rocket's trail as a "comet-like" streak across the sky. In Las Vegas, residents were advised to "look to the western sky" to witness the phenomenon.
Significance of Starlink 15-9
The deployment of 26 Starlink V2 Mini satellites is part of SpaceX's ongoing efforts to enhance its global broadband network. These satellites are designed to improve internet connectivity in underserved and remote areas, contributing to the company's goal of providing high-speed internet access worldwide.
Conclusion
The successful launch of the Starlink 15-9 mission not only demonstrates SpaceX's technical capabilities but also highlights the company's commitment to expanding global internet coverage. As the 200th orbital launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base, this mission underscores the growing importance of reusable rocket technology in reducing spaceflight costs and increasing launch frequency. With each successful mission, SpaceX moves closer to its vision of a fully connected world.
