The space industry is hitting new heights in 2025, with Florida’s Space Coast leading the charge. On Monday night, a Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched 29 Starlink satellites, marking the 94th orbital mission from this hub this year. This achievement sets a new record for the most satellite launches in a single calendar year from the world’s busiest spaceport.

Just days earlier, China’s Long March 11 rocket launched from an ocean platform, contributing to a total of 255 orbital missions globally in 2025—another record for annual launch activity. As of midweek, the total has risen to 259, with projections indicating around 300 launches by year’s end. This astonishing number more than doubles the 135 launches recorded in 2021, highlighting rapid growth in space operations.

Experts note that this surge reflects advancements in launch technology and increased commercial and governmental demand. According to industry analysts, the trend suggests a new era of frequent, cost-effective space missions, which could accelerate satellite deployment, scientific research, and even lunar or Martian exploration in the coming years.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.