SpaceX successfully launched 21 Starlink satellites into orbit on Saturday night, April 12, 2025. The mission took place under a bright full moon from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This marks another key moment in SpaceX’s effort to provide satellite-based internet across the globe.
Falcon 9 Lifts Off from Historic Launch Pad
Launch started right on time
The rocket used for this mission was a Falcon 9. It lifted off from Launch Complex-39A at 8:53 p.m. EDT (0053 GMT on April 13). The Falcon 9 carried 21 new Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO), continuing the rapid expansion of the Starlink internet network.
First Stage Booster Lands Safely on Drone Ship
Another perfect landing at sea
About 2.5 minutes after liftoff, the rocket’s first stage—called Booster B1083—shut off its engines and separated from the second stage. Six minutes later, it made a smooth landing on the drone ship named A Shortfall of Gravitas, which was waiting in the Atlantic Ocean. This same booster had been used in several missions, including Crew-8 and Polaris Dawn.
What’s Special About These Starlink Satellites?
13 satellites now support mobile phone signals
Of the 21 satellites launched, 13 are equipped with “Direct to Cell” technology. This allows them to help eliminate dead zones for mobile phones. In the United States, SpaceX is working with T-Mobile to offer this service, making it possible to send texts and calls even in remote areas without cell towers.
Satellites Begin Journey to Final Orbits
From launch to space network in one hour
About an hour after liftoff, the satellites were released into space. From there, each one will move into a specific orbit to become part of SpaceX’s growing Starlink megaconstellation. These satellites will provide fast and reliable internet to more areas around the world.
Starlink Network Keeps Growing
Over 7,000 satellites now in orbit
The Starlink network now includes more than 7,000 satellites. These satellites work together in a large grid to deliver internet access almost everywhere on Earth, except for the polar regions. The network offers high-speed, low-latency internet, and it keeps getting larger every week.
SpaceX Achieves Another Milestone
42 Falcon 9 launches in 2025 so far
Saturday’s mission was SpaceX’s 42nd Falcon 9 launch of the year, and the 28th one to carry Starlink satellites. This shows how quickly the company is building its satellite network and advancing its space technology.
