SpaceX Achieves Milestone: 100th Falcon 9 Launch This Year!
SpaceX continues its relentless pace of space exploration, marking a significant milestone this week. On Monday, August 18, 2025, the company successfully launched its 100th Falcon 9 rocket of the year, carrying another batch of 24 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit. The launch took place from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, further solidifying SpaceX's dominance in the commercial space sector.
Another Successful Starlink Deployment
The mission, designated Starlink 17-5, is part of SpaceX's ongoing effort to build a vast constellation of satellites providing global broadband internet access. This launch brings the total number of Starlink satellites launched in 2025 to an impressive 1,786, and over 9,400 since 2018. The satellites were successfully deployed approximately 50 minutes after the rocket reached its preliminary orbit.
Falcon 9's Reusable Rocket Technology
A key aspect of SpaceX's success is its reusable rocket technology. The Falcon 9 first stage booster, designated B1088, used for this mission, completed its ninth flight to space. Its previous missions included supporting NROL-126, NROL-57, and NASA's SPHEREx/PUNCH ride share mission. Approximately 8.5 minutes after liftoff, B1088 successfully landed on the SpaceX droneship, 'Of Course I Still Love You,' marking the 145th booster landing on this vessel and the 489th booster landing to date. This reusability significantly reduces the cost of space travel and enables more frequent launches.
What's Next for SpaceX?
SpaceX shows no signs of slowing down. With a growing Starlink constellation and continued development of its Starship rocket, the company is poised to play an even larger role in the future of space exploration. The successful 100th Falcon 9 launch of the year is a testament to SpaceX's innovation, engineering prowess, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
- Total active Starlink satellites: Over 8,100
- Total Starlink satellites launched since 2018: Over 9,400
- Falcon 9 launches in 2025: 100
- B1088's missions: NROL-126, NROL-57, SPHEREx/PUNCH, and multiple Starlink deployments