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Monday Night SpaceX Falcon 9 Launch from Vandenberg May Be Visible Across Southern California

SpaceX plans a Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base Monday night that may be visible across Southern California, including San Diego. Liftoff is targeted for 9:28 p.m. Pacific with a four-hour launch window. The mission will deploy 27 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit. A live webcast begins about five minutes before liftoff on SpaceX’s website and X; clear skies and unobstructed viewpoints improve chances of seeing the launch.

Monday Night SpaceX Falcon 9 Launch from Vandenberg May Be Visible Across Southern California

Residents across the West Coast — including Southern California and San Diego County — could see a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Monday night. Liftoff is targeted for 9:28 p.m. Pacific Standard Time, with a four-hour launch window.

Mission details: The Falcon 9 will carry 27 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit as part of SpaceX’s ongoing Starlink deployments, according to SpaceX.

How to watch

Because Vandenberg is an active military facility, the public cannot view launches from inside the base. However, if skies are clear, viewers throughout Southern California — especially from coastal areas and elevated viewpoints with an unobstructed view of the northwest sky — may spot the rocket’s ascending streak. The plume and ascending first stage can produce a bright, fast-moving point of light visible shortly after liftoff.

A live webcast begins roughly five minutes before liftoff and is available on SpaceX’s website and its X (Twitter) account. Check SpaceX’s official channels for the latest schedule and any last-minute changes before heading out.

Viewing tips

  • Choose a dark location with a clear horizon and minimal light pollution.
  • Bring binoculars or a camera with a wide-angle lens and tripod for better viewing and photos.
  • Allow time for travel and parking, and verify local weather and SpaceX updates in case of delays or scrubbed launches.

Note: All times listed are Pacific Standard Time. Plan to arrive at your viewing spot early to secure a clear line of sight.

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