SpaceX Launches 29 Starlink Satellites, Florida Breaks Annual Launch Record

SpaceX confirmed the successful deployment of 29 Starlink satellites during a launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on November 10. This mission, designated Starlink 6-87, marked a pivotal moment for Florida's space launch history, as it contributed to breaking the state's annual launch record.

The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off at 10:21 PM EST, making it the 94th launch for an orbital-class rocket from Florida, surpassing the previous record set in 2024. The record-breaking launches included contributions from SpaceX's Falcon 9, Atlas 5 and Vulcan rockets from United Launch Alliance, and a flight from Blue Origin's New Glenn.

The launch was initially scheduled for earlier in the day but was delayed due to restrictions set by the Federal Aviation Administration on commercial launches amid a shortage of air traffic controllers.

These restrictions limited launches to a nighttime window between 10 PM and 6 AM. The 45th Weather Squadron had forecasted a 60% chance of favorable conditions, despite concerns about winds at liftoff and conditions in the recovery zone near the Bahamas.

SpaceX utilized one of its newer Falcon 9 boosters, designated B1096, which successfully completed its third flight. In less than eight minutes post-launch, the booster landed autonomously on the drone ship, 'Just Read the Instructions', marking the 141st landing on this vessel and the 532nd booster landing overall.

According to Space.com, this launch was the 144th Falcon 9 mission in 2025 and the 104th dedicated to expanding the Starlink constellation. Notably, SpaceX has achieved significant milestones this year, with a total of 149 liftoffs, breaking previous records of 132 Falcon 9 launches and 138 total liftoffs set in 2024.

This achievement highlights the growing frequency of satellite deployments, emphasizing the expanding role of commercial space ventures in the industry. As Florida continues to establish itself as a leading hub for space activities, the recent record reinforces the state's pivotal role in the evolving landscape of space exploration and satellite deployment.