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SpaceX Launches Starfall Reentry Capsule, 31 Customer Payloads

October 18, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

SpaceX launches Starfall reentry capsule on Bandwagon-5 mission.
31 customer payloads onboard, including 20 from Exolaunch.
Mission uses Falcon 9 rocket with tail number B1085.
Starfall capsule is a microgravity lab for research and innovation.

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Strategic Implications

This launch may signal SpaceX's growing focus on reentry technology and microgravity research, which could have significant implications for the development of new space-based industries and applications. The inclusion of multiple customer payloads suggests a strong demand for access to space, which could drive further innovation and investment in the sector.

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What Happened

Bandwagon-5 Rideshare Mission Takes Flight From Cape Canaveral

SpaceX is set to launch its Bandwagon-5 rideshare mission from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, carrying the Starfall reentry capsule and 31 customer payloads. The mission will use a Falcon 9 rocket with the tail number B1085 and is scheduled to launch during an hour-long window that opens at 6:30 a.m. EDT. The Starfall capsule is a microgravity lab designed to support research and innovation, and its launch is a significant step forward for SpaceX’s reentry technology. This launch was reported by Spaceflight Now.

Source | Originally Published: October 18, 2026

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