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Classified Mission for National Reconnaissance Office
Vandenberg Space Force Base, California - On May 22nd, 2024, SpaceX successfully executed a classified mission, NROL-146, for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO). The Falcon 9 rocket, launching from Vandenberg Space Force Base, carried an undisclosed number of next-generation spy satellites. These satellites, developed by SpaceX in collaboration with Northrop Grumman, represent the first phase of an expansive constellation aimed at quadrupling the NRO's spacecraft in orbit.
The mission underscores the growing collaboration between private aerospace companies and government agencies. This deployment marks a significant step forward in enhancing the United States' reconnaissance capabilities, leveraging advanced satellite technology for national security purposes.
Starlink Group 6-6: Expanding Global Internet Coverage
Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida - Just hours after the NROL-146 launch, SpaceX achieved another milestone by sending 23 Starlink internet satellites into orbit. The launch took place at 10:35 p.m. EDT (0235 GMT on May 23), marking SpaceX's 53rd launch of the year. This mission continues the rapid expansion of SpaceX's Starlink constellation, aimed at providing global internet coverage.
Prior to this latest mission, SpaceX had already launched 656 Starlink satellites in 2024 across 29 flights. With this addition, the total number of Starlink satellites in orbit, according to astronomer and spacecraft tracker Jonathan McDowell, now stands at 5,896. SpaceX's ambitious plans include deploying nearly 12,000 satellites, with a potential extension to 34,400.
Growing Subscriber Base
Since its inception, Starlink has seen a rapid increase in subscribers. SpaceX announced reaching over 1 million subscribers in December 2022, 2 million in September 2023, and 3 million in May 2024. This exponential growth highlights the demand for reliable internet services worldwide, especially in remote and underserved regions.
SpaceX's back-to-back launches demonstrate the company's capability to manage multiple complex missions efficiently. These achievements reflect not only SpaceX's technological prowess but also its significant role in advancing both commercial and governmental space initiatives.