SpaceX Continues to Expand Starlink Network with Latest Launch

On October 27, 2025, SpaceX made headlines once again with the successful launch of another batch of its Starlink broadband satellites. A Falcon 9 rocket, carrying 28 Starlink satellites, lifted off from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base at 8:43 p.m. EDT (5:43 p.m. local time, 00:43 GMT on October 28). This launch marks a significant milestone in SpaceX’s ongoing mission to provide global internet coverage through its expanding satellite network.

The first stage of the Falcon 9 rocket performed flawlessly, returning to Earth approximately 8.5 minutes after liftoff. It successfully landed in the Pacific Ocean on the SpaceX drone ship named “Of Course I Still Love You.” This mission marked the 17th flight for this specific booster, designated as 1082, which has been utilized in various missions, including USSF-62, OneWeb Launch 20, NROL-145, and 13 previous Starlink missions.

As the rocket’s upper stage continued its journey, it carried the 28 Starlink satellites toward low Earth orbit (LEO), where they are scheduled to be deployed roughly an hour post-launch. This mission not only adds to the growing Starlink megaconstellation but also underscores SpaceX’s commitment to enhancing global internet connectivity.

This launch is particularly noteworthy as it represents the 137th Falcon 9 mission of the year, and it is the third launch in just three days. Out of these missions, an impressive 98 have been dedicated to building the Starlink network, which is now recognized as the largest satellite constellation ever assembled.

To date, SpaceX has successfully launched over 10,000 Starlink satellites, with nearly 8,750 currently active in low Earth orbit. The company has ambitious plans for the future, with projections to add approximately another 30,000 satellites over the coming years, significantly increasing the size of the Starlink network.

With each launch, SpaceX continues to break its own records, extending its single-year launch tally. The previous record of 134 orbital launches was set in 2024, and with each successful liftoff, the company inches closer to achieving its goal of providing reliable internet access to underserved and remote areas around the globe.

As SpaceX forges ahead with its innovative endeavors, the expansion of the Starlink network promises to revolutionize internet connectivity, bridging the digital divide and paving the way for a more connected world.