On May 1 at 9:51 p.m. EDT (May 2, 0151 GMT), SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 28 new Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida. The mission, designated Starlink 6-75supports the continued expansion of SpaceX’s global broadband internet networkwhich now comprises over 7,200 active satellites.
This launch brings SpaceX closer to its goal of providing near-global high-speed internet access via user-directed terminals, with the exception of the polar regions.
Following liftoff, the Falcon 9’s nine Merlin engines shut down approximately 2.5 minutes into flight, allowing for stage separation. The first stage booster, B1080then executed a retrograde burn and landed successfully on the Just Read the Instructions droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.
This reusable rocket milestone underscores SpaceX’s dominance in launch frequency and hardware recoverywith consistent booster turnarounds playing a key role in lowering costs and maintaining launch cadence.
Roughly one hour after launchthe Falcon 9’s upper stage reached its targeted orbit and deployed all 28 Starlink satellites. These satellites will gradually move into their designated operational slots over the next few days, further reinforcing the Starlink mesh network that delivers continuous global broadband coverage.
The Starlink 6-75 mission marks:
SpaceX’s 51st Starlink launch of 2025
34th Falcon 9 launch this year
Reinforcement of SpaceX’s leadership in commercial spaceflight and LEO communications infrastructure
With two Starship test flights already completed in 2025, this Falcon 9 mission continues to exemplify SpaceX’s fast-paced operationswhich aim to make space-based internet a ubiquitous reality. The company is not only expanding satellite-based connectivity but also setting new records in reusability and mission frequency—hallmarks of its long-term vision.
SpaceX’s Starlink constellation is positioned to revolutionize internet access for rural, underserved, and mobile communities worldwideand each successful launch, such as Starlink 6-75, brings that future a step closer.
