SpaceX initiated its concluding launch push of 2024 by successfully sending a Falcon 9 rocket into orbit, ferrying 22 new Starlink satellites. The liftoff occurred from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 8:48 p.m. EST (5:48 p.m. PST or 0148 GMT on December 29). This marked SpaceX's 132nd rocket launch of the year. With two more launches scheduled in the upcoming days, the company is on track to reach an unprecedented total of 134 missions by the end of 2024.
Falcon 9 Launches Starlink Satellites into Orbit
The Falcon 9 lifted off from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) under clear weather conditions, deploying 22 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit. Approximately 65 minutes after liftoff, the satellite deployment was confirmed, advancing SpaceX’s rapid growth of its Starlink constellation.
This flight was also notable for the Falcon 9's first stage, which achieved its 16th successful landing on the droneship “Of Course I Still Love You” positioned in the Pacific Ocean. This milestone highlights the company’s continued progress in reusing rocket components. A mission controller shared during the live broadcast, “This booster’s journey is incredible, with 16 flights completed and counting.”
Setting New Records in 2024
With a total of 132 launches so far, SpaceX’s 2024 operations stand as its busiest year to date. Among these are 88 missions deploying Starlink satellites, reinforcing the firm’s stronghold in providing satellite internet worldwide. Only a single mission faced significant trouble due to an upper stage liquid oxygen leak. Nevertheless, SpaceX’s mission success rate remains exceptional.
VP of Launch Kiko Dontchev took to the platform X to comment on the milestone: “We are targeting 134 launches — just two away from our highest target — to wrap up 2024 on a high note.” He emphasized, “Safety and reliability are our primary focus, and zero failures is the only acceptable outcome.”
Starlink’s Expanding Network in Orbit
The Starlink constellation, already the largest network of satellites ever deployed, now includes almost 6,700 operational spacecraft, as reported by astrophysicist and satellite expert Jonathan McDowell. This extensive system provides high-speed internet access to regions lacking traditional connectivity options.
Beyond connectivity, Starlink is essential for funding SpaceX’s ambitious plans for space exploration. Profits from Starlink support development efforts aimed at colonizing Mars and advancing next-generation vehicles like Starship, designed for deep space missions.
Prepping for an Ambitious 2025
As the final SpaceX launches of 2024 come into view, the company is already setting sights on an even more ambitious schedule in 2025. Its strong track record in managing a high launch cadence while maintaining exceptional reliability positions SpaceX as a continued leader in expanding humanity’s reach into space.
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