SpaceX successfully launched 21 additional Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit on Saturday, continuing its mission to expand global internet access through its satellite-based network.
The launch took place at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where a Falcon 9 rocket carried the satellites into orbit. Of the 21 units, 13 are outfitted with Direct to Cell technology, a feature designed to eliminate mobile service dead zones by enabling direct satellite communication with mobile devices.
Approximately one hour after liftoff, the satellites were deployed to begin their journey into designated orbital positions. They will join the thousands already in operation as part of SpaceX’s rapidly growing Starlink constellation, which currently delivers internet coverage to users in over 100 countries.
Starlink, a project by Elon Musk’s aerospace company, aims to bring high-speed internet to underserved and remote regions worldwide.
Despite the benefits, the program has drawn criticism from scientists and environmentalists. Concerns have been raised over the increasing amount of space debris, the potential for collisions in low Earth orbit, and the broader environmental impact of a densely packed satellite network.
