A SpaceX Starlink mission launched from Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday, breaking the previous record for the most launches in a single year. The event marked the 23rd Starlink launch of 2024, surpassing the prior annual total. The launch occurred at 8:45 a.m. from Launch Complex 39A, a site historically used for Apollo and Space Shuttle missions. SpaceX confirmed the 50th satellite deployment of the year during the flight, which lasted 62 minutes.
The achievement highlights Kennedy Space Center’s role as a key launch site for commercial space operations. SpaceX has conducted 12 launches from the center this year alone, according to Brevard County officials. The facility has hosted 162 launches since 1961, including NASA’s Artemis missions and private sector ventures. Local aerospace workers said the increased activity has created new job opportunities in the area.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex reported a 22% increase in visitor numbers compared to 2023, with many tourists citing the high frequency of launches as a draw. The center’s director, Kathy Lueders, noted that the record reflects “the resilience of the space industry and the dedication of Brevard County’s workforce.”
The launch follows a series of milestones for SpaceX, including the first reuse of a Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage in 2024. The vehicle used for Wednesday’s mission had previously flown in March 2023. SpaceX plans to conduct at least 15 more launches from the Space Coast this year, with targets including Starlink satellite deployments and cargo missions to the International Space Station.
Local officials emphasized the economic impact of the record. Brevard County’s aerospace sector employs over 15,000 people, with 60% of those jobs tied to launch operations. The county’s tax office reported a 14% rise in aerospace-related business permits in the first quarter of 2024.