SpaceX sets to launch 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg on upcoming Sunday
SpaceX to launch 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg April 5; debut Falcon 9 booster to land on droneship.
SpaceX is preparing for another major milestone as it plans to launch the Starlink 17-35 mission this Sunday, April 5, 2026. The mission will see 25 Starlink satellites sent into low-Earth orbit aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. The launch is scheduled to take place during a four-hour window from 4:03 p.m. to 8:03 p.m. PT at Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base.
First-stage booster makes its debut
In a significant development, the first-stage booster for this mission will make its maiden flight. Once its job is complete, the booster is scheduled to land on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You", which will be stationed in the Pacific Ocean. This marks yet another step in SpaceX’s ongoing efforts to streamline and reuse launch vehicles.
Sonic booms may be heard along California's coast
Residents in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties have been advised to be on alert for one or more sonic booms during the launch. According to officials, the phenomena may occur depending on weather conditions and other environmental factors.
Vandenberg's key role in space operations
Vandenberg Space Force Base continues to emphasize its critical role in national security and space exploration. The base supports a wide range of missions, including "nuclear deterrence, homeland defense, global command and control of space assets, orbital tracking, and training for space operations Guardians and nuclear Airmen."
Live coverage available
Space enthusiasts will be able to follow the launch through a live webcast, which will begin approximately five minutes before liftoff. Additional updates will be shared on X @SpaceX and through the X TV app.
With the launch of 25 more Starlink satellites, SpaceX continues to expand its ambitious constellation aimed at providing global internet coverage. This mission underscores the company’s commitment to advancing low-Earth orbit operations and reusable rocket technology.
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