SpaceX successfully launched 21 Starlink internet satellites on Saturday (Feb. 8), continuing its mission to expand global broadband coverage.
A Falcon 9 rocket carrying the satellites—including 13 with direct-to-cell capability—lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 2:18 p.m. EST (1918 GMT).
Booster’s 17th Flight and Recovery
About eight minutes after launch, the Falcon 9’s first stage successfully landed on the SpaceX drone ship “A Shortfall of Gravitas” in the Atlantic Ocean. This marks the 17th successful launch and landing for this booster, with 12 of its previous missions dedicated to Starlink deployments.
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Meanwhile, the rocket’s upper stage continued toward low Earth orbit, deploying the 21 satellites approximately 65 minutes after liftoff.
Expanding the Starlink Network
This mission is part of SpaceX’s continued expansion of its Starlink satellite constellation, which aims to provide global high-speed internet, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
So far in 2025, SpaceX has completed 17 Falcon 9 missions, with 11 dedicated to Starlink satellites. The company also launched a test flight of its Starship megarocket on Jan. 16, which ended in a partial success due to a propellant leak in the upper stage.
Looking Ahead
With its rapid launch cadence, SpaceX continues to lead the commercial space industry, pushing forward with Starlink deployments and upcoming missions for NASA and private customers.
For updates on upcoming launches and how to spot Starlink satellite trains in the night sky, check out our Space Forums or email us at community@space.com.
