Key Points:
- Falcon 9 launched 28 Starlink satellites, expanding the network.
- Booster 1063 landed successfully after its 28th flight.
- SpaceX advances global internet and reusable tech.
SpaceX launched another batch of Starlink satellites on Sunday, Sept 28, 2025, from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off at 7:04 p.m. local time, carrying 28 satellites into low Earth orbit. About an hour later, the satellites were successfully deployed, further strengthening the Starlink constellation that now comprises more than 8,500 active satellites.
This mission, designated Starlink Group 11-20, was the company’s 124th Falcon 9 launch of the year. It also marked the 542nd Falcon 9 flight overall since the rocket’s debut in 2010, underscoring the rapid pace at which SpaceX continues to operate.
Booster Recovery and Reuse Milestone
The first stage of the rocket, Booster 1063, played a pivotal role in the mission. After stage separation, it executed a controlled descent and landed smoothly on the drone ship Of Course I Still Love You, stationed in the Pacific Ocean. This was the booster’s 28th flight, a remarkable milestone that reflects the company’s commitment to reusability and cost reduction.
Each successful recovery adds to SpaceX’s proven track record in booster refurbishment and reuse. The company’s approach has not only reduced the costs of launching satellites but also demonstrated the scalability of reusable rocket technology, setting a precedent for the broader aerospace industry.
Impact and Future Outlook
The launch was visible across Southern California, drawing spectators along the coast and reminding residents of the region’s role in space exploration. More importantly, the new deployment brings SpaceX closer to its goal of providing global high-speed internet coverage, particularly to underserved and remote regions.
With an increasingly steady cadence of launches, SpaceX is cementing its dominance in the commercial spaceflight sector. The combination of rapid launch frequency, reliable booster recovery, and continued expansion of the Starlink constellation positions the company as a leader in both connectivity and reusability. As the year progresses, additional missions are expected to follow, further extending Starlink satellites reach and refining the technology behind these reusable systems.
