"SpaceX's Ninth Rideshare Mission Blasts Off into Space"
SpaceX successfully launched its ninth dedicated smallsat rideshare mission, Transporter-9, deploying over 100 satellites into orbit. The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California and landed back at the launch site. The mission carried 90 payloads, including satellites from companies like Planet, Spire, Iceye, Umbra, and Foxconn. The Transporter missions have received mixed reactions, with some praising the regular and low-cost access to space while others argue it undermines small launch vehicle developers. SpaceX's Transporter services continue to see strong demand, with bookings extending into 2025 and plans for a new line of rideshare missions starting in 2024.