SpaceX successfully launched 22 Starlink satellites into orbit on February 1, 2025, from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The mission, designated as Starlink 11-2, took off at 1:55 p.m. PST (4:55 p.m. EST / 21:55 UTC) atop a Falcon 9 rocket. This launch contributed to SpaceX’s ongoing efforts to expand its global broadband network, which now includes thousands of satellites operating in low Earth orbit. The Falcon 9’s first stage, which had previously been used in nine missions—including seven Starlink deployments—successfully landed on the drone ship Of Course I Still Love You in the Pacific Ocean just eight minutes after launch.

This launch was part of SpaceX’s accelerated schedule, making it the 87th Starlink mission of the year and the 124th Falcon 9 launch overall for 2024. SpaceX has been increasingly reusing its Falcon 9 boosters, showcasing its commitment to cost-effective and sustainable spaceflight. The company’s rapid launch cadence reflects its dominance in the commercial space sector, particularly in deploying large-scale satellite constellations. The 22 Starlink satellites deployed during this mission will help improve internet connectivity in underserved and remote regions, enhancing network capacity and reliability worldwide.

The upper stage of the Falcon 9 deployed the Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit approximately 60 minutes after liftoff. This expansion of the Starlink network is crucial for SpaceX’s long-term vision of providing global broadband coverage, including maritime, aviation, and military applications. With over 6,800 operational Starlink satellites already in orbit, SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of commercial satellite deployment. The successful launch and recovery of the Falcon 9 booster further demonstrate the company’s ability to execute frequent, reliable, and cost-efficient missions, solidifying its leadership in the new space economy