X Report 11 Feb 2025

🚀 Latest Developments

SpaceX continues its Starlink expansion with a successful launch of 23 new satellites, enhancing global connectivity. The company won a contract to launch a small NASA astrophysics mission later this year, highlighting SpaceX’s growing role in space science. Meanwhile, Starship Flight 8 moves forward as Booster 15 undergoes a successful static fire test, signaling progress in the ambitious Mars-bound program.

📰 Detailed Coverage

SpaceX Launches 23 Starlink Satellites from California

A new batch of SpaceX Starlink satellites are now in orbit following a successful launch from California on February 10. This latest deployment enhances the growing constellation, which aims to provide worldwide internet coverage, further solidifying SpaceX’s lead in the satellite internet race.

For satellite tracking users, this addition enhances network capacity and service availability, particularly in previously underserved regions.

Read the full story: Space.com

NASA Selects SpaceX for Astrophysics Smallsat Mission

NASA has tapped SpaceX to launch a small exoplanet science mission as a rideshare payload, set for as early as September. This partnership underscores NASA’s confidence in SpaceX’s launch capabilities and represents another step in the democratization of space science through cost-effective launch solutions.

This choice by NASA reflects SpaceX’s growing influence in the space sector and broadens the company’s portfolio beyond telecommunications to scientific and exploratory missions.

Read the full story: SpaceNews

Starship Flight 8: Booster 15 Completes Static Fire

SpaceX’s Starship development advances as Booster 15 completed a static fire test, preparatory for Starship Flight 8. This milestone follows weeks of preparation and fine-tuning of the booster, which is equipped with 33 Raptor engines, reinforcing SpaceX’s commitment to developing the next-generation spacecraft aimed at Mars colonization.

The successful test marks progress in SpaceX’s timeline for Starship missions, crucial for both lunar and Martian aspirations.

Read the full story: SpaceExplored