SpaceX Falcon 9 deploys 24 Starlink satellites after California launch

SpaceX Expands Starlink Network with 24 New Satellites

Thursday, February 12, 2026 - For the third time this month and 12th time since the start of the year, SpaceX has expanded its Starlink network with a new batch of low Earth orbit satellites. On Wednesday, February 11, the commercial spaceflight company sent 24 more of its broadband internet relay units into space. The launch, on a Falcon 9 rocket, began at 12:11 p.m. EST (1711 GMT or 9:11 a.m. PDT local time) from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

A New Milestone for Starlink

The latest additions to the Starlink network bring the total number of megaconstellation satellites to over 9,600. This expansion is a significant milestone for SpaceX, as it continues to push the boundaries of space-based internet connectivity. With Starlink, SpaceX aims to provide high-speed internet access to remote and underserved communities around the world.

The Launch Details

The Falcon 9 rocket carrying the 24 Starlink satellites launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The first-stage booster, B1100, performed as expected, completing its third launch with a propulsive landing on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You" positioned in the Pacific Ocean. This successful landing marks another achievement for SpaceX's reusable rocket technology.

Starlink's Growing Network

The Starlink network is designed to provide global coverage, with a constellation of thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit. The network is expected to offer a range of services, including broadband internet, direct cell-to-satellite calls, and in-flight Wi-Fi. With the latest launch, SpaceX has taken another step towards achieving its goal of providing high-speed internet access to the world.

The Benefits of Starlink

The Starlink network has the potential to bring numerous benefits to remote and underserved communities. With high-speed internet access, people in these areas will be able to access a range of services, including education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. This can help to bridge the digital divide and improve the quality of life for millions of people around the world.

The Future of Starlink

As SpaceX continues to expand its Starlink network, it is likely to play a major role in shaping the future of space-based internet connectivity. With its reusable rocket technology and advanced satellite design, SpaceX is well-positioned to lead the way in this field. As the network grows, it is expected to offer a range of services, including high-speed internet, direct cell-to-satellite calls, and in-flight Wi-Fi.

Conclusion

The latest launch of 24 Starlink satellites marks another significant milestone for SpaceX. With its reusable rocket technology and advanced satellite design, SpaceX is well-positioned to lead the way in space-based internet connectivity. As the network grows, it is expected to bring numerous benefits to remote and underserved communities around the world. With its potential to bridge the digital divide and improve the quality of life for millions of people, the Starlink network is an exciting development in the field of space technology.

Forward-Looking Thoughts

As the Starlink network continues to expand, it is likely to have a significant impact on the way we live and work. With high-speed internet access available to remote and underserved communities, people will be able to access a range of services, including education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. This can help to bridge the digital divide and improve the quality of life for millions of people around the world. As the network grows, it is expected to offer a range of services, including high-speed internet, direct cell-to-satellite calls, and in-flight Wi-Fi. With its potential to shape the future of space-based internet connectivity, the Starlink network is an exciting development in the field of space technology.

Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-starlink-17-34-b1100-vsfb-ocisly