SpaceX plans to launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Tuesday, September 15, as part of a classified mission for the U.S. Space Force. The launch window will open at 6 p.m. PT and is expected to be livestreamed on the SpaceX website.
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This mission, designated USSF-259, marks the second consecutive classified launch from California for the company. Recent launches have alternated between military missions and regular deployments of Starlink internet satellites. Regardless of the payload, SpaceX continues to rely on its Falcon 9 rocket, known for its reliability and performance.
Should weather or other issues arise, there is a backup launch opportunity scheduled for the following day, according to a Federal Aviation Administration advisory.
The Falcon 9, a robust two-stage rocket standing 230 feet tall, is noted for being the most frequently launched rocket globally, with hundreds of missions to its credit from both California and Florida.
For those unable to attend in person, SpaceX will provide a livestream of the launch, starting approximately ten minutes before liftoff. Updates will be available via their social media channels as well.
After takeoff, the Falcon 9's booster will attempt to land on a SpaceX drone ship named "Of Course I Still Love You" in the Pacific Ocean to facilitate future reuse.
Residents in Santa Barbara County, as well as surrounding areas in San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties, may hear sonic booms resulting from the booster re-entering the atmosphere at supersonic speeds, which can produce sounds similar to thunder lasting up to ten minutes. Additionally, there will be a low rumble audible at local distances from the launch site.