SpaceX successfully launched 28 Starlink V2 Mini satellites on Tuesday night, adding to its growing megaconstellation in low Earth orbit.
Why it matters: The Starlink 11-17 mission contributes to SpaceX’s goal of increasing global broadband access through its Starlink satellite constellation. These efforts signify continuous advancements and relentless efforts by SpaceX to maintain and expand its satellite internet services.
The details:
- The mission, designated Starlink 11-17, took off from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base on October 7, 2025, at 8:54 p.m. PDT (11:54 p.m. EDT / 0354 UTC).
- The satellites were deployed using the Falcon 9 rocket booster, tail number B1071, which marked its 29th flight. This makes B1071 the second-most flown booster in the SpaceX fleet.
- After liftoff, nearly 8.5 minutes into the flight, the B1071 booster successfully performed an autonomous landing on the drone ship “Of Course I Still Love You.” This marked the 156th landing on this particular vessel and the 516th booster landing to date for SpaceX.
SpaceX confirmed the successful deployment of the satellites early Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 1:05 a.m. EDT (0505 UTC), ensuring another step forward in the company’s ambitious space endeavors.
What’s next: SpaceX plans to send a Falcon 9 rocket into low-Earth orbit, carrying 24 Project Kuiper broadband satellites. The launch is scheduled for Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 9:34 p.m. ET from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Where to watch:
- Playalinda Beach: Located near Canaveral National Seashore.
- Max Brewer Bridge and Parrish Park: Titusville, with parking available on both sides.
- Space View Park: Located at 8 Broad St., Titusville.
- Sand Point Park: 10 E. Max Brewer Causeway, Titusville.
Live coverage of the launch will start 90 minutes before liftoff. For more information, visit floridatoday.com/space or download the free FLORIDA TODAY app.
The successful launch and landing reiterate SpaceX’s commitment to reusability and cost-efficiency in space exploration. The company’s advancements are significant not only for commercial interests but also for infrastructure in space connectivity.
Recent from X
Flight-proven Super Heavy booster moved to the pad at Starbase ahead of launch pic.twitter.com/z5GP4HU5wH
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) October 8, 2025
Watch Falcon 9 launch 28 @Starlink satellites to orbit from California https://t.co/THKmnmw78j
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) October 8, 2025
LAUNCH at 0354 UTC Oct 8 of Starlink Group 11-17 from Vandenberg
— Jonathan McDowell (@planet4589) October 8, 2025
