SpaceX launched another batch of Starlink satellites from Florida, marking the eighth reuse of one of its Falcon 9 boosters—a new milestone in reusable rocketry.
Wrapping up a banner 2020 with 26 successful launches—surpassing its 2018 record of 21—SpaceX kicked off 2021 with its second mission. On Wednesday, the company successfully deployed 60 Starlink satellites into orbit (video at article end).
Approximately eight minutes post-liftoff, booster B1051 touched down on the drone ship Just Read the Instructions in the Atlantic Ocean, marking SpaceX's 72nd first-stage recovery.
This mission highlighted the booster's eighth flight, the most for any Falcon 9 first stage. SpaceX aims to reach 10 reuses for at least one booster later this year.
B1051 previously flew an uncrewed Crew Dragon test in 2019, launched three Canadian Earth-observation satellites, and supported four Starlink missions.
Notably, it last flew on December 13 (SiriusXM-7 mission), just 38 days prior—a record turnaround. The average Falcon 9 booster refurbishment takes 51 days, giving SpaceX a key edge in rapid reusability.
This was the 16th operational Starlink launch, pushing the constellation past 1,000 satellites (some deorbited as they reach end-of-life).
SpaceX's beta internet service has proven reliable in North America. UK users will join soon, following Ofcom's approval last year.
Expect an accelerated Falcon 9 cadence in 2021, driven by Starlink, NASA ISS crew rotations, and ramped-up Starship and Super Heavy testing.
