SpaceX Successfully Launches 22 Starlink Satellites, Lands Rocket at Sea

SpaceX successfully launched 22 Starlink internet satellites into orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California using a Falcon 9 rocket. The rocket's first stage landed on the drone ship "Of Course I Still Love You" in the Pacific Ocean, marking its ninth successful flight and landing. This mission contributes to the growing Starlink megaconstellation, which now includes over 6,800 operational satellites. SpaceX has conducted over 120 Falcon 9 missions in 2024, with nearly 70% focused on expanding the Starlink network.