Tech Desk 
Jan 07, 2025
SpaceX has successfully launched the first batch of Starlink internet satellites for the year 2025 from Florida's Space Coast.
The Elon Musk-owned aerospace company continues to advance its Starlink programme, providing internet connectivity across the globe through its extensive satellite network.
First Starlink satellites of 2025 launched
The launch took place at 3:43pm EDT (20:43 GMT) from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, with a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 24 Starlink spacecraft into orbit.
The Falcon 9's first stage made a successful return to Earth, landing on the SpaceX droneship named "Just Read the Instructions" stationed in the Atlantic Ocean approximately eight minutes following the liftoff.
According to the SpaceX mission description, this marked the 17th launch and landing for this particular booster.
It's worth noting that this booster has been used for 10 Starlink missions and one crewed mission, the Crew 5 mission to the International Space Station, which was conducted on behalf of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Moreover, according to satellite tracker and astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell, the Starlink mega constellation currently comprises more than 6,850 active satellites, including those with direct-to-smartphone capabilities.
