SpaceX launches Falcon 9 rocket carrying 'Starlink' broadband communication satellites

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SpaceX sent a Falcon 9 rocket into orbit late Thursday from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Space Launch Complex 40, carrying with it 60 broadband communication satellites, collectively known as Starlink.

Roughly 10 minutes after launch, Falcon 9's first stage landed on the "Of Course I Still Love You" droneship in the Atlantic Ocean.  It's the third launch and landing of this particular booster.

SpaceX describes the Starlink system as "a next-generation satellite network capable of connecting the globe, especially reaching those who are not yet connected, with reliable and affordable broadband internet services."

This launch was originally scheduled for Wednesday, May 15; however, it was scrubbed due to excessive upper-level winds. A launch planned for the following day was also delayed, so that a satellite software update could be completed. 

 

 

This story was written in Orlando, Florida.