SpaceX launches polar orbit Starlink satellites from California

28/5/2025 7:41

SpaceX successfully launched 24 Starlink satellites into polar orbit Tuesday morning, marking the company's first such mission configuration since 2023.



The mission, designated Starlink 17-1, will deploy the broadband internet satellites into low-Earth orbit at a 97-degree inclination, according to SpaceX launch documentation. This polar orbital configuration enables the satellites to provide enhanced coverage to regions at higher latitudes, including parts of Alaska, northern Canada, and other polar areas that were previously underserved by the constellation.



The company utilized Falcon 9 booster B1082 for the mission, marking the rocket's 13th flight. The reusable first stage has previously supported nine other Starlink missions, as well as launches for the National Reconnaissance Office and OneWeb satellite deployments.