A pre-dawn launch from Vandenberg could bring visible streaks and sonic booms to coastal counties.
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. – SpaceX is preparing to launch 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit from California’s central coast, with liftoff targeted from Space Launch Complex 4 East. The mission marks another expansion of the company’s satellite internet network and could be visible across parts of the region. Residents in nearby counties are also being warned of possible sonic booms tied to the rocket’s return.
A live webcast of the mission is scheduled to begin approximately five minutes before liftoff, with coverage available online and through SpaceX’s official X account. The Falcon 9 rocket assigned to the mission has already flown three times, including prior national security and Starlink deployments.
Booster reuse and coastal impact
This launch will mark the fourth flight for the Falcon 9 first-stage booster, which previously supported the NROL-105 mission and two earlier Starlink launches. After stage separation, the booster is expected to land on the droneship Of Course I Still Love You, positioned in the Pacific Ocean.
SpaceX noted in its mission description, “There is the possibility that residents of Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties may hear one or more sonic booms during the launch.” The company added that local conditions such as weather and trajectory will determine the extent of what is experienced on the ground.
Key Points
- Falcon 9 to launch 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base
- First-stage booster set for fourth flight and ocean droneship landing
- Sonic booms possible across three California coastal counties
Expanding Starlink network
The Starlink constellation continues to grow as SpaceX deploys additional satellites aimed at increasing global broadband coverage. Low-Earth orbit satellites are designed to reduce latency and improve service in remote and underserved areas.
Friday’s mission follows a series of rapid launches from both California and Florida, underscoring the company’s ongoing cadence of deployments. The use of a previously flown booster reflects SpaceX’s continued emphasis on reusability to reduce launch costs and turnaround time.
Local residents are advised to watch for changing conditions as the countdown progresses, with visibility and sound impacts varying across the region.