SpaceX launches 23 Starlink internet satellites into space

U.S. private space company SpaceX launched 23 Starlink satellites into orbit early Friday, reported Xinhua.

According to SpaceX, the satellites were launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 1:01 a.m. Eastern Time (0501 GMT).

Shortly after the launch, Falcon 9's first-stage booster returned and landed on a droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

SpaceX later confirmed the deployment of the 23 satellites.

Friday's liftoff was the 12th launch and landing for this booster, according to a SpaceX mission description.