SpaceX launches new Starlink satellites and breaks record with Falcon 9 rocket

SpaceX launches new Starlink satellites and breaks record with Falcon 9 rocketSpaceX launches new Starlink satellites and breaks record with Falcon 9 rocket (X @SpaceX)

SpaceX launched 27 new satellites for the Starlink network this week, expanding internet service coverage in several countries.

The launch, carried out in Florida, United States, marked a record for the Falcon 9 rocket, which completed its 27th flight successfully. The Falcon 9’s first stage, used for the 27th time, is now one of the company’s main boosters, having supported various previous missions involving satellite transport for internet providers, as well as powering the Crew Dragon spacecraft.

The Starlink constellation, which already includes approximately 7,200 satellites in orbit 550 km above Earth, aims to further expand its global coverage. Each satellite weighs about 260 kg and is equipped with high-performance antennas and solar panels to ensure power supply.

Since 2019, the satellites have been launched to build a high-speed internet network, with plans to reach over 40,000 satellites in the future, increasing coverage and service quality.

However, this rapid fleet expansion has raised concerns among astronomers, who fear that the large number of satellites may hinder space observations and interfere with radio astronomy. In addition, other companies are also developing similar services, leading to growing “congestion” in space, affecting visibility and astronomical research.

Source: TecMundo | Photo: X @SpaceX | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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