SpaceX achieved another milestone on April 5, 2025, with the successful launch of 28 Starlink internet satellites aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. The launch took place at 11:07 p.m. EDT from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, marking the 39th Falcon 9 mission of the year.
Following liftoff, the Falcon 9's first stage returned to Earth, landing safely on the drone ship "Just Read the Instructions" stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. This particular booster has now completed an impressive 19 launch and landing cycles, demonstrating SpaceX's commitment to reusability.
Of the 39 Falcon 9 missions conducted in 2025, a significant portion, approximately two-thirds, have been dedicated to expanding the Starlink megaconstellation. With over 7,100 Starlink satellites currently in operation, SpaceX continues to be the leader in providing global internet access.