SpaceX Launches 22 Starlink Satellites, Expanding Direct-to-Phone Network

SpaceX is set to launch 22 Starlink satellites on a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, marking the 87th Starlink mission this year. The launch is part of the U.S. Space Force's efforts to enhance spaceport resiliency, with the Falcon 9 booster making its ninth flight. The Space Force has supported 136 missions this year, contributing to 60% of global launches, and is investing $1.3 billion to upgrade launch infrastructure to boost capacity and resilience.