SpaceX has officially completed its last planned Falcon 9 launch of 2024, successfully deploying 22 Starlink satellites as part of its efforts to expand global internet access via its satellite network. The mission launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 8:58 p.m. EST (5:58 p.m. PST) on December 28, reflecting the ambitious goals SpaceX has set for the closing year of its operations.
This recent launch marks yet another milestone for SpaceX, with 2024 being the busiest year for the aerospace manufacturer. According to Kiko Dontchev, SpaceX's Vice President of Launch, the company targeted 134 orbital launches by year-end—two shy of their initial goal. “We’re now targeting 134 launches – two shy of our last goal – to finish 2024 strong,” Dontchev remarked, emphasizing the company's intense activity and focus on performance.
The Falcon 9 rocket—known for its reusable first stage—successfully touched down on the droneship 'Of Course I Still Love You' located in the Pacific Ocean just minutes after liftoff. This flight was particularly noteworthy for the booster, as it was its 16th launch, showcasing SpaceX’s commitment to reusability and efficiency within their operations.
The launched group of satellites is part of SpaceX's Starlink initiative, which has rapidly expanded to include nearly 6,700 active satellites currently orbiting Earth, according to satellite tracker and astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell. SpaceX's mission aims to provide broadband internet connectivity to underserved and remote areas worldwide, which has become increasingly significant as demand for internet access continues to grow globally.
Among the notable aspects of this launch was the stunning view provided to observers on the ground. The launch occurred just after twilight, allowing for beautiful visual effects known as the “twilight phenomena.” Experts suggest this occurs when chemicals from the rocket’s exhaust freeze and drift through the atmosphere, creating colorful displays as sunlight refracts through them. Residents of the surrounding areas were encouraged to look to the west for a chance to witness this spectacle.
Reflecting on the past year, Digital Trends reported SpaceX has conducted 129 Falcon 9 launches, coupled with two Falcon Heavy and three Starship launches. A significant number of these flights had focused on deploying satellites for Starlink, as well as fulfilling commercial customers' needs. Notably, the company increased its activity with government contracts as well, which numbered around 18 for the year.
Looking forward to 2025, SpaceX officials anticipate another busier year. With plans to ramp up testing of its massive Starship rocket and aiming for as many as 25 launches, including tests and commercial missions, SpaceX is poised to solidify its place at the forefront of the aerospace industry.
The company has already secured permission for the Starship’s seventh test flight, expected to take place as early as January. This rocket has generated enthusiasm due to its unprecedented capabilities, including the ability to create 17 million pounds of thrust, pushing its potential for missions far beyond low-Earth orbit.
Despite the ambitious launch schedule, Kiko Dontchev reiterated SpaceX's primary focus on safety: “Our priority is – and will remain – safety and reliability above all else.” This commitment has underlined the successes the company has achieved throughout its operations.
With 2024 concluding, SpaceX appears not only to have met significant milestones but also is positioning itself for even greater achievements. The final Starlink launch of the year exemplifies the company's evolution and incredible advances made under the direction of Elon Musk, which have significantly reshaped the way the world thinks about satellite internet services and space operations.
SpaceX’s relentless pursuit of innovation serves to inspire interest and confidence as it continues to push the boundaries of what is possible both on Earth and beyond, paving the way for the exciting developments slated for the New Year.