On Thursday morning, Vandenberg Space Force Base will support the launch of the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) fourth Tranche 1 data transport mission. The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled to lift off from Space Launch Complex 4 East at 12:54 a.m., with the first stage set to land back at sea approximately 8-10 minutes after liftoff, producing a sonic boom audible in nearby areas.
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This launch follows two previous scrubs on Monday and Tuesday due to technical issues. If necessary, a backup launch opportunity is available on Friday at 12:47 a.m.
The mission will deploy 21 additional data transport satellites into low-Earth orbit, contributing to the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. This network aims to provide tactical data to military forces, track missile threats, and enable beyond-line-of-sight targeting.
The first mission of this kind successfully launched from Vandenberg on September 10, 2025. Residents in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties may hear sonic booms during the launch, depending on weather conditions. Following stage separation, the Falcon 9's first stage will land on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship stationed in the Pacific Ocean.
A live webcast of the mission will start approximately 10 minutes prior to liftoff, available at www.spacex.com/launches/sda-t1tl-a, on X @SpaceX, or via the X TV app.