SpaceX launches NROL-126 and 20 Starlink satellites

On November 30, 2024, SpaceX launched a new Falcon 9 rocket in partnership with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and Space Force Space Launch Delta 30 to deploy the NROL-126 satellite into orbit. This was the fifth launch of NRO’s proliferated architecture.

The payload was accompanied by 20 Starlink satellites. A few hours ago, the rocket maker also deployed 24 Starlink satellites from a separate mission launched from Florida.

This new mission was lifted off from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The weather supported this liftoff and provided a clear opportunity to fire those nine Merlin engines.

Watch Falcon 9 launch the @NatReconOfc’s NROL-126 mission and 20 @Starlink satellites to orbit from pad 4E in California https://t.co/sietQBtxWX

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) November 30, 2024

SpaceX used a fresh booster for this mission and sent it off from the launch pad. After stage separation, the booster returned to a droneship stationed in the Pacific Ocean.

Falcon 9’s first stage has landed on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship pic.twitter.com/bGyKTLXD4F

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) November 30, 2024

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