SpaceX is ready to make history with its next Starlink launch, marking a major milestone in global satellite internet expansion. The Starlink milestone highlights this moment as the company prepares to send its 10,000th satellite into orbit. Scheduled for liftoff today, October 18, from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base, this mission underscores SpaceX’s rapid progress toward building the world’s largest satellite network.
A Major Leap for SpaceX
At 7:46 p.m. ET, during a four-hour launch window, a Falcon 9 rocket will lift off carrying 28 Starlink satellites. This launch will officially push SpaceX’s total number of Starlink satellites past 10,000—a symbolic achievement in its mission to provide high-speed internet access around the globe. Viewers can watch the event live on SpaceX’s official website and social media channels.
Building the Starlink Network
SpaceX first launched two prototype satellites in February 2018 to test the concept of a satellite-based broadband network. Just over a year later, the company began deploying large batches of satellites to form what is now known as the Starlink megaconstellation.
By October 2020, SpaceX started a public beta service that allowed users to connect to the network for the first time. A year later, it transitioned to a full commercial rollout, rapidly expanding its user base. Today, Starlink serves millions of customers across continents, including rural and remote areas where traditional internet infrastructure is limited or unavailable.
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Rapid Expansion and Record Numbers
The scale of Starlink’s growth is staggering. SpaceX launched 89 Starlink missions in 2024 and has already surpassed that pace this year. The company has official approval to deploy 12,000 satellites but is aiming even higher. Plans are underway to expand the constellation to over 30,000 satellites, ensuring stronger global coverage and more stable connections.
As of now, out of the 9,988 Starlink satellites launched, 8,610 remain active in orbit. The rest have been safely deorbited, burning up in Earth’s atmosphere as part of SpaceX’s sustainability plan. Each satellite typically operates for about five years before being replaced by a newer, more advanced version.
Precision Engineering at Work
If today’s mission proceeds as planned, the Falcon 9’s first stage will execute a precise return and land on the drone ship “Of Course I Still Love You,” stationed in the Pacific Ocean. The landing is expected about 8.5 minutes after liftoff.
This particular booster, labeled B1088, has already completed 10 missions, including national security launches like NROL-126 and scientific payloads such as SPHEREx. Its 11th flight today showcases SpaceX’s reusable rocket technology—an innovation that has significantly reduced launch costs and increased operational efficiency.
The Satellite Deployment
Following stage separation, the rocket’s upper stage will continue its journey, carrying the 28 Starlink satellites to low Earth orbit (LEO). About an hour after launch, the satellites will be released to begin their orbit stabilization process. From there, they will use onboard ion thrusters to reach their designated operational altitudes and integrate into the growing constellation.
This batch will further enhance internet speed and connectivity for users in regions across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. Each launch contributes to improving latency, coverage, and reliability for Starlink customers.
Starlink’s Global Impact
The Starlink project has reshaped global internet accessibility. From supporting emergency communications in disaster zones to connecting remote schools and hospitals, the service has demonstrated real-world value. In areas lacking infrastructure, Starlink provides a lifeline—bringing education, telemedicine, and business opportunities to underserved regions.
Its growing presence has also influenced the global telecommunications industry, driving competition and innovation among traditional broadband providers. Moreover, SpaceX’s push toward a fully reusable launch system has inspired a new wave of cost-effective satellite missions worldwide.
Sustainability and Future Plans
While the rapid buildup of satellites in orbit raises concerns about space debris, SpaceX has implemented measures to minimize risks. Every Starlink satellite is designed to deorbit at the end of its lifespan, ensuring it burns up completely upon reentry. The company also works closely with international regulators to maintain safe orbital operations and prevent collisions.
Looking ahead, SpaceX aims to enhance the Starlink network with next-generation satellites capable of inter-satellite laser communication. This technology will allow data to travel between satellites without relying on ground stations, greatly improving performance in remote and oceanic regions.
Beyond the Milestone
Today’s launch symbolizes more than just a numerical achievement. It reflects SpaceX’s vision to bridge the digital divide and revolutionize how the world connects. With over 10,000 satellites in orbit and more on the way, the company continues to lead the charge in affordable global broadband access.
As the Falcon 9 soars once again from California’s coast, SpaceX cements its legacy in modern space exploration. The 10,000th Starlink satellite isn’t just another spacecraft—it represents humanity’s ongoing journey toward universal connectivity. And with each launch, SpaceX brings that vision closer to reality.
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