SpaceX launches 10,000th Starlink satellite, with no sign of slowing down

In a remarkable feat, SpaceX launched two Falcon 9 rockets from Florida and California on Sunday, successfully adding 56 new satellites to its Starlink broadband network. The second launch, which took place at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, was particularly significant as it marked the company's achievement of deploying over 10,000 mass-produced Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The current count stands at 10,006 satellites, as noted by astrophysicist Jonathan McDowell, who meticulously tracks satellite activities. This milestone includes various Starlink demonstration satellites, while excluding the dummy spacecraft utilized in SpaceX's recent Starship test missions. As of August, the Starlink network has grown to accommodate more than 7 million global subscribers, primarily providing internet access to homes and businesses. SpaceX is now intensifying efforts to extend this service directly to smartphones. The journey began with the launch of the first two Starlink prototypes, Tintin A and Tintin B, back in 2018. Since then, SpaceX has transformed its satellite design, starting full-scale launches in 2019 with 60 satellites per mission. However, as the satellites evolved to become larger and more advanced, the capacity per Falcon 9 launch has reduced to a maximum of 28 satellites. During the launch event on Sunday, SpaceX’s launch director celebrated the achievement, stating, "From Tintin to 10,000. Go Starlink, go Falcon, go SpaceX." Just over an hour after liftoff, SpaceX confirmed the successful deployment of the 28 satellites, positioned approximately 160 miles (260 kilometers) above Earth. These satellites are set to unfold their solar panels and engage their plasma engines, initiating a climb to their operational altitude of 332 miles (535 kilometers). As the fleet expands, SpaceX is also focused on retiring older Starlink satellites. These outdated units reenter the atmosphere, designed to incinerate upon descent, ensuring no debris reaches the surface. With the ongoing adjustments to its fleet, the Starlink program continues to make significant strides in the realm of satellite internet connectivity.