The 10 satellites are the first of at least 70 satellites that SpaceX will launch for Iridium’s next generation global satellite constellation, Iridium NEXT.

Below is a summary of the mission in photos, with more photos available on our Flickr site. You can also watch the archived webcast here, and find more information about the mission in our press kit.

Falcon 9 lifted off from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California at 9:54:39 am PST.

View from the Falcon 9 vehicle looking back at the launch site as it ascends towards orbit.

Approximately two and a half minutes into flight, the first and second stages separate, and the second stage engine ignites to carry the 10 Iridium satellites to their destination in low-Earth orbit.

Grid fins help orient the Falcon 9’s first stage as it prepares to land on the “Just Read the Instructions” drone ship, holding position in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California.

Landing legs deployed in final seconds before landing.

Falcon 9 first stage after its successful landing on the “Just Read the Instructions” drone ship.

Partial view of the Iridium NEXT satellites just before the deployment sequence begins.

View of the payload dispenser following deployment of all 10 Iridium satellites!

Source: Space-X.com