SpaceX has reset its Falcon 9 rocket launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base for Tuesday morning after aborting Monday’s countdown as the clock hit zero. The mission will deploy 24 Starlink satellites into orbit, utilizing a first-stage booster making its 23rd flight over the Pacific Ocean.
Countdown Aborted at Zero on South Base
Monday’s launch attempt at Space Launch Complex-4 on South Base came to a sudden halt when the countdown clock hit zero, forcing an aborted liftoff. SpaceX tentatively reset the mission for between 7 and 11 a.m. Tuesday. Launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County can face delays for various reasons, including technical troubles with the rocket, payload or support equipment, unfavorable weather, and scheduling issues.
Starlink Payload and Booster Flight
The primary objective of the flight is to deliver 24 satellites into orbit for the Starlink constellation. To accomplish this, the mission relies on a first-stage booster making its 23rd flight. Once stage separation occurs, the booster is scheduled to land on the Of Course I Still Love You
droneship positioned in the Pacific Ocean.
Where to Watch the Vandenberg Liftoff
For spectators hoping to view the launch in person, the Lompoc Valley features multiple vantage points near the launch pad. These include the peak of Harris Grade Road, located west of Lompoc’s city limits, and areas around Vandenberg Village near the intersection of Moonglow and Stardust roads. Because Vandenberg launches near sunset or sunrise can be especially picturesque, clear skies may also allow observers to spot the rocket’s departure from elsewhere around California and, under certain conditions, other Western states.
Webcast Coverage and Upcoming Falcon Manifest
Viewers watching from home can tune into a live webcast of the mission, which is scheduled to begin about 10 minutes before liftoff at spacex.com/launches and on X @SpaceX. Beyond Tuesday’s attempt, SpaceX has already lined up additional Falcon rocket liftoffs from Vandenberg for upcoming Starlink missions scheduled for July 24 and 27.
