Vandenberg Rocket Launches
Launch Articles
News, analysis, and stories from the launch pad
Falcon 9 Set to Launch Starlink Group 17-22 on April 18
Everything you need to know about the upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base, targeting April 18.
Falcon 9 Set to Launch Starlink Group 17-14 on April 21
Everything you need to know about the upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base, targeting April 21.
Apr 15, 2026
Falcon 9 Set to Launch Starlink Group 17-16 on April 25
Everything you need to know about the upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base, targeting April 25.
Apr 15, 2026
Falcon 9 Set to Launch Starlink Group 17-36 on April 29
Everything you need to know about the upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base, targeting April 29.
Apr 15, 2026
Minotaur IV Returns to Vandenberg: What the STP-S29A Mission Means for National Security
Northrop Grumman's solid-fuel Minotaur IV rocket launched from Vandenberg's SLC-8 on a Space Test Program mission. Here's why this smaller rocket matters.
Apr 15, 2026
Starlink Group 17-27 Lights Up the Central Coast Sky
Last night's Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg lit up the 805 with a spectacular display. Here's what happened and what's coming next.
Apr 15, 2026
Why Do So Many Rockets Launch from Vandenberg? The Geography Behind the Pad
There's a reason Vandenberg is one of only two major launch sites in the US. It comes down to physics, geography, and a clear shot over the Pacific Ocean.
Apr 15, 2026
Your First Vandenberg Launch: A Beginner's Guide to Watching Rockets from the 805
Never seen a rocket launch in person? Here's everything you need to know about watching SpaceX and other rockets lift off from Vandenberg, right here on the Central Coast.
Apr 15, 2026
Vandenberg's Record-Breaking 2026: A Launch Cadence Like Never Before
With multiple launches per week, Vandenberg Space Force Base is on pace for its busiest year ever. Here's what's driving the surge and what it means for the 805.
Apr 15, 2026
SpaceX Falcon 9 Successfully Launches Starlink Group 17-27
Recap of the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base on April 14. Mission successful.
Apr 14, 2026
SpaceX Falcon 9 Successfully Launches Starlink Group 17-21
Recap of the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base on April 10. Mission successful.
Apr 10, 2026
Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV Successfully Launches STP-S29A
Recap of the Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base on April 7. Mission successful.
Apr 7, 2026