4 days ago2 min read

SpaceX Prepares for Its Final Mission of 2024

SpaceX is poised to launch another batch of Starlink satellites on its final Falcon 9 flight of 2024 on Dec. 31, 2024. (Image credit: SpaceX)

As 2024 comes to a close, SpaceX is gearing up for one final launch. A Falcon 9 rocket, carrying 21 Starlink broadband internet satellites, is set to lift off on Dec. 31 at 12:34 a.m. EST (0534 GMT) from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Among these satellites, 13 are equipped with direct-to-cell capability, marking another innovative leap in global connectivity.

A Year of Record-Breaking Launches

This mission will mark SpaceX’s 134th Falcon flight in 2024, an impressive achievement that surpasses its previous annual record by 38 launches. Of these, 89 missions were dedicated to expanding the Starlink constellation, demonstrating SpaceX’s commitment to creating a robust and accessible global internet network.

Tuesday's mission is also notable as SpaceX's third Falcon 9 launch in three consecutive days, following a Starlink mission from California and a multi-satellite launch for Astranis from Cape Canaveral. This rapid cadence underscores SpaceX's industry leadership and operational efficiency.

Booster Milestone and Precision Landings

The Falcon 9 first stage set to launch this mission is a veteran of 15 previous flights, including Crew-6 and 11 other Starlink missions. Following liftoff, the booster will aim for a precision landing on the droneship "Just Read the Instructions", stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. This marks another step in SpaceX's commitment to reusability and cost-effectiveness in space exploration.

The Growing Starlink Megaconstellation

Starlink, already the largest satellite constellation ever deployed, will grow even further with this mission. Currently, there are over 6,850 active Starlink satellites in orbit, providing global broadband connectivity. With the addition of these 21 satellites, SpaceX continues to enhance its network’s coverage and capacity.

Tune in Live

Space enthusiasts can watch the mission live on SpaceX’s website or the social media platform X, starting about five minutes before liftoff.

As the curtain falls on 2024, SpaceX’s final mission serves as a testament to its relentless pursuit of innovation and its transformative impact on the space industry. Here's to a remarkable year and an exciting future ahead!

The Final Countdown: Dec. 31 Launch Details
- Launch timing and location
- Payload specifics: Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability
Breaking Records: SpaceX’s Launch Cadence in 2024
- Comparison to prior years
- Significance of rapid and frequent launches
Reusable Rockets: A Milestone for Falcon 9 Boosters
- History of the booster’s 15 previous flights
- Role of reusability in reducing launch costs