Tech Desk 
Nov 25, 2024
SpaceX launched another batch of 23 Starlink internet satellites on Monday from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Florida’s Space Coast to boost global connectivity.
The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifted off at 4:35am EST, carrying 23 Starlink spacecraft, including 12 equipped with direct-to-smartphone capability.
The Falcon 9's first stage returned to Earth eight minutes after launch, landing on the droneship in the Atlantic Ocean.
This accomplishment marked the 13th flight for this specific booster, of those, six flights have been dedicated to Starlink missions.
The Falcon 9's upper stage continued to deploy the Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) approximately 64 minutes after liftoff.
According to satellite tracker Jonathan McDowell, the Starlink constellation now comprises more than 6,600 active satellites, including those with direct-to-smartphone capabilities.
