SpaceX Launches Falcon 9 with Thuraya 4 Satellite

On January 4, 2025, SpaceX spectacularly launched its first mission of the year, sending a Falcon 9 rocket into space carrying the Thuraya 4 satellite from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 40 in Florida. The rocket lifted off at precisely 8:27 p.m. EST, marking yet another milestone in SpaceX's impressive history.

Successful Booster Recovery

Just eight minutes and 40 seconds after liftoff, SpaceX's booster made a successful return, landing on the company's droneship named "A Shortfall of Gravitas," stationed in the Atlantic Ocean. This mission was particularly noteworthy because it marked the 20th flight and recovery of this specific Falcon 9 first stage booster, contributing to SpaceX's remarkable total of 341 recoveries for orbital-class rockets, which includes both Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy boosters.

Thuraya 4 Satellite Deployment

Approximately 35 minutes and 30 seconds into the flight, the Thuraya 4 satellite separated from the rocket's second stage and was deployed into a geostationary transfer orbit. This satellite, constructed by Airbus, has been developed for Space42—an innovative company that emerged from the merger between the UAE's premier satellite provider, Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat), and the AI-driven geospatial solutions firm, Bayanat. This collaboration aims to enhance satellite coverage and leverage AI for better geospatial insights.

Space42's Operational Satellites

Space42 already manages two operational geostationary satellites: Thuraya 1, launched in 2001, and Thuraya 2, which followed in 2003. Together, these satellites provide extensive coverage for land-based, marine, and aviation customers across Africa, Central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. It's worth noting that Thuraya 3, launched in 2008, is currently out of service due to an unexpected anomaly in its payload.

SpaceX's Impressive Track Record

As part of SpaceX's exceptional track record, the Falcon 9 rocket has completed 418 missions, and this launch counted as SpaceX's 435th mission overall. The company wrapped up 2024 with a thrilling New Year's Eve launch, yet their ambitious agenda didn't stop there. In 2024 alone, SpaceX executed over 130 orbital missions, proving their unrivaled efficiency in the space industry.

Looking Ahead to More Launches

Looking ahead, SpaceX is gearing up for more Falcon 9 launches, specifically targeting Starlink satellites with launch windows scheduled for January 7 from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 40 and Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A.

The Space Race Intensifies

Adding to the excitement, Blue Origin is also set to launch its 320-foot New Glenn rocket shortly, further intensifying the space race with a target launch from Cape Canaveral Launch Complex 36. Space enthusiasts, buckle up—2025 promises to be a captivating year in aerospace!