On Saturday night, April 12, 2025, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket illuminated the skies as it launched 21 Starlink satellites from Kennedy Space Center's Pad 39A. The liftoff occurred at 8:53 PM local time, creating a breathtaking spectacle as the rocket ascended against the backdrop of a luminous full moon.
The mission successfully deployed 21 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit, with 13 equipped with Direct to Cell capabilities. These advanced satellites feature onboard eNodeB modems, functioning akin to cell towers in space, aiming to enhance mobile connectivity in remote and underserved regions.
Approximately eight and a half minutes post-launch, the Falcon 9's first-stage booster, marking its 10th flight, executed a precise landing on the drone ship "A Shortfall of Gravitas" stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. This achievement underscores SpaceX's commitment to reusability and cost-effective space missions.
Spectators along Florida's Space Coast were treated to the mesmerizing sight of the rocket's trajectory intersecting with the full moon, a visual delight that garnered widespread attention on social media platforms.
Looking ahead, SpaceX is preparing for another Starlink satellite launch from Cape Canaveral scheduled for Sunday, April 13, 2025, as part of its ongoing efforts to expand global internet coverage.
