June 25, 2025
In a major step toward expanding its global satellite internet coverage, SpaceX successfully launched 27 Starlink satellites on June 25, 2025. The launch took place at 3:54 p.m. EDT (19:54 UTC) from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This mission, designated Starlink 10-16, further adds to the company’s rapidly growing constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites.
The payload consisted of 27 second-generation Starlink satellites, referred to as “V2 Mini Optimized” models. These newer satellites feature improved performance, enhanced antenna capacity, and laser inter-satellite links for better data transmission between orbital units. They are designed to handle higher bandwidth and expand internet coverage to remote and underserved parts of the world. With this launch, the total number of active Starlink satellites now exceeds 7,800.
A major highlight of the mission was the use of the Falcon 9’s first-stage booster B1080, which was flying for the 20th time. After liftoff and stage separation, the booster performed a controlled descent and landed successfully on the autonomous droneship Just Read the Instructions, stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. This marked the 468th successful booster landing overall for SpaceX and the 126th on this particular droneship. The booster’s repeated use underlines the company’s leadership in rocket reusability and cost-efficient space operations.
What made the day even more remarkable was the double-launch scenario from Florida’s Space Coast. Just hours before the Starlink launch, SpaceX had also launched the Axiom Mission 4—a private crewed mission to the International Space Station—from Launch Complex 39A at the nearby Kennedy Space Center. This rare double launch day showcases SpaceX’s capability to execute rapid and complex space operations with minimal downtime between missions.
The Starlink program, developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, aims to provide fast, low-latency internet access globally, particularly in areas where traditional infrastructure is lacking. Since its beta launch in 2020, the network has expanded to over 70 countries and is being used by millions. The newer V2 satellites deployed in this mission are expected to enhance service reliability, support greater user capacity, and lay the groundwork for future advancements such as direct-to-smartphone connectivity.
Starlink has been utilized in disaster zones, conflict regions, rural education initiatives, and scientific missions across the globe. Its flexibility and quick deployment make it a game-changer in global communications, as proven during events like the 2023 Turkey earthquake and continued support in Ukraine. Additionally, maritime and aviation sectors are integrating Starlink terminals for seamless internet connectivity during transit.
While the expansion of Starlink promises digital transformation across the globe, it has also faced criticism from astronomers concerned about light pollution and orbital congestion. In response, SpaceX has taken steps to reduce satellite brightness by adding sunshades and non-reflective coatings. The company is also working with observatories to develop improved tracking and mitigation strategies to minimize disruption to ground-based astronomy.
Looking ahead, SpaceX plans to continue a fast-paced Starlink deployment schedule, aiming to launch up to 100 missions in 2025 alone. Future versions of Starlink satellites will be launched using the company’s next-generation Starship vehicle, which will be capable of deploying more than 100 satellites in a single flight. Additionally, the upcoming Starlink Direct to Cell service is expected to roll out later this year, allowing regular smartphones to connect directly to satellites, enabling communication in areas with no ground-based network.
