SpaceX is set to launch 23 more Starlink satellites on a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base (SFB) in California, following the successful launch of 23 Starlink satellites from Florida earlier this week. The mission, named Starlink 8-2, is scheduled for 7:48 p.m. PDT (10:48 p.m. EDT, 0248 UTC) and will include 13 Starlink satellites with Direct to Cell capability.
The latest Starlink mission is the second launch this week, marking the company’s continued efforts to expand its global satellite internet network. The previous Starlink launch took place from Florida on Monday, successfully deploying 23 satellites into orbit.
The Starlink 8-2 mission will see the deployment of an additional 23 Starlink satellites, 13 of which will be equipped with Direct to Cell capability. This feature is a significant advancement in Starlink’s technology, allowing for direct communication between the satellites and standard smartphones, without the need for additional hardware.