SpaceX successfully launched the Starlink 12-12 mission from Cape Canaveral on Thursday afternoon. With that, SpaceX added 21 new satellites to its ever growing internet constellation, 13 with Direct to Cell capabilities.
At the heart of the mission was booster B1067. Among a fleet of reusable rockets, this booster has successfully launched and landed 25 times, a new company record. This booster alone has launched over 400 satellites into space and 8 astronauts to the International Space Station. The booster also supported two CRS missions that brought cargo and other supplies to the ISS.
The booster returned to Port Canaveral this morning aboard SpaceX’s droneship “Just Read the Instructions.”
Looking ahead, booster B1067 has yet to be assigned its next mission. It will be interesting to see how far SpaceX will continue to push booster use as the company continues furthering rapid reusability. The fastest refurbishment period for B1067 thus far is 23 days.
SpaceX is currently the only rocket manufacturer in the world that is capable of reusing portions of their launch vehicles. Blue Origin is attempting to land their New Glenn rocket during their inaugural mission, currently targeting 1/13/2025.
