On June 25, 2026, SpaceX executed the Starlink 17-45 mission, successfully launching 24 Starlink V2 Mini satellites from the West Coast. The liftoff occurred at 8:30 p.m. PDT (11:30 p.m. EDT / 0330 UTC) from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
The satellites were propelled into orbit on a south-southwesterly trajectory by the Falcon 9 first stage B1081, which marked its 25th flight. Approximately 8.5 minutes post-launch, the booster successfully landed on the drone ship ‘Of Course I Still Love You’. The deployment of the satellites followed just over an hour into the flight.
Increased Launch Activity at Vandenberg
In 2026, California has emerged as a focal point for SpaceX’s launch operations, particularly as the company shifts its emphasis toward Starship operations at Cape Canaveral. This mission represents the seventh of eight planned launches from Vandenberg in June, contrasting with six scheduled launches from Florida.
Despite having two launch pads at Cape Canaveral, SpaceX is currently utilizing only Space Launch Complex 40 for Falcon 9 missions, reserving Launch Complex 39A for Falcon Heavy launches. This strategy allows for uninterrupted construction of the East Coast Starship facility at 39A.
Rapid Turnaround Times
SpaceX’s operational efficiency was underscored by the rapid turnaround at Vandenberg, highlighted by the Starlink 17-28 mission on June 21, which launched just 56 hours after the previous flight. Notably, the booster from the prior mission, NROL-179, was still visible at the landing zone when the subsequent launch occurred.
Future Launch Plans
If the current schedule remains intact, SpaceX is projected to achieve a total of 40 missions from Vandenberg in the first half of 2026, surpassing the 37 missions planned from Cape Canaveral. This increased launch cadence emphasizes SpaceX’s commitment to expanding its Starlink network and enhancing global internet connectivity.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
