TL;DR
On June 28, SpaceX launched 24 new Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base. The mission increases the active Starlink constellation to over 10,700 satellites, supporting global internet coverage.
SpaceX successfully launched 24 additional Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit on June 28, using a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The launch, which took place at 12:09 p.m. EDT, marks another step in expanding the company’s broadband internet network, with the satellites expected to be deployed approximately one hour after liftoff. Live Coverage: SpaceX To Launch 24 Starlink Satellites On Falcon 9 Rocket From Vandenberg SFB
The Falcon 9 rocket carrying the group of 24 Starlink satellites lifted off from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg at 12:09 p.m. EDT. The first stage of the rocket, Booster 1088, completed its 17th flight and successfully landed on the autonomous droneship “Of Course I Still Love You” in the Pacific Ocean. The satellites reached orbit about nine minutes after launch and are on track for deployment by the upper stage roughly an hour later.
With this launch, the total number of active Starlink satellites has surpassed 10,700, according to tracking by Jonathan McDowell. The Starlink network provides internet access to users worldwide, including in-flight Wi-Fi and cell-to-satellite services. Watch SpaceX launch 15,000-pound SiriusXM satellite to orbit tonight This mission was SpaceX’s 75th Falcon 9 launch of 2026, demonstrating the company’s ongoing launch cadence.
Implications for Global Internet Coverage
This launch underscores SpaceX’s ongoing efforts to expand its Starlink constellation, which now exceeds 10,700 satellites. The increased satellite count enhances the network’s capacity and coverage, potentially improving internet access in remote and underserved regions worldwide. The deployment of more satellites also supports SpaceX’s goal of providing high-speed, low-latency broadband, which is vital for both civilian and commercial users, including aviation and maritime sectors.
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SpaceX’s Starlink Expansion and Past Launches
Since its initial launches, SpaceX has steadily increased the size of its Starlink constellation, aiming to provide global internet coverage. The company’s launches from Vandenberg and other sites have become a regular part of its strategy to grow the network. The current mission continues a series of frequent launches in 2026, with this being the 75th Falcon 9 mission of the year. Previous missions have also involved deploying batches of dozens of satellites, contributing to the rapid expansion of the network.
“The continuous deployment of Starlink satellites by SpaceX is critical to achieving global coverage and improving internet access in remote areas.”
— an anonymous researcher
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Next Steps for Satellite Deployment and Network Performance
While the satellites have reached orbit and are on track for deployment, it is not yet confirmed when all will be fully operational or how they will perform in different regions. The impact on internet speeds, latency, and coverage improvements will become clearer over the coming weeks as the satellites are integrated into the network and tested.
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Upcoming Deployment and Network Integration Milestones
Following deployment, SpaceX will activate and calibrate the new satellites, integrating them into the existing constellation. The company may also announce further launch plans to continue expanding the network. Observers will monitor the satellites’ performance and coverage impacts, especially in underserved regions, over the next several months.
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Key Questions
How many Starlink satellites are currently active?
There are now more than 10,700 active Starlink satellites in orbit, according to tracking by Jonathan McDowell.
What is the significance of this launch for global internet access?
This launch helps expand the Starlink network, potentially improving internet connectivity in remote and underserved areas worldwide.
When will the new satellites become operational?
Deployment is expected within about an hour after launch, with operational status confirmed over the following weeks as the satellites are calibrated and integrated into the network.
How many satellites has SpaceX launched this year?
This is SpaceX’s 75th Falcon 9 mission in 2026, contributing to the rapid growth of the Starlink constellation.
Will there be more Starlink launches soon?
While specific schedules are not confirmed, SpaceX regularly plans additional launches to continue expanding its satellite network.
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