Florida Space Coast sets new record for number of rocket launches this year

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Updated  October 26, 2024 6:24pm EDT
FOX 35 Orlando

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - SpaceX launched more of its internet-providing satellites into space on Saturday – and helped set a new record for the number of rocket launches off Florida's Space Coast this year.

Saturday's SpaceX launch marked the 73rd from the Space Coast for the year, beating the previous record of 72 launches set in 2023. And it's a benchmark that is likely to be beat as the year is not yet over.

Earlier this week, the record was tied.

"Meeting and exceeding previous benchmarks is all part of how we are setting the pace for space in this new era," Space Launch Delta 45, Patrick Space Force Base & Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, said in a post on X earlier in the week. 

Last week, FOX 35's Esther Bower reported that Kennedy Space Center has been preparing for this increase in rocket launches, especially as commercial space flights, including the potential for space tourism, continues to grow.

"This aligns with the Kennedy Space Center Master Plan," said Tom Engler, director of the Center Planning and Development Directorate. The plan aimed to have five commercial human spaceflight companies on site by 2025. So far, four are already operating.

He said updates are underway at both Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, including new launch sites, stronger roads, expanding the electrical grid, and bolstering natural gas infrastructure.

At Kennedy Space Center specifically, he told FOX 35 that it is strengthening its facilities for natural disasters, such as hurricanes, to better protect the launch pads, rockets, and their payloads.

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