SpaceX is set to conduct a significant rocket launch on Saturday, December 27, from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base. This mission marks the company’s last scheduled launch of 2025 and will see the Falcon 9 rocket delivering the CSG-3 Earth observation satellite for the Italian Space Agency into low-Earth orbit.
Residents across Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo counties may have the opportunity to witness this launch, which is especially appealing during the holiday season when many families are looking for entertaining activities. SpaceX’s choice to engage in this mission diverges from their usual focus on Starlink satellite deployments.
The Falcon 9, known for its reliability and frequent usage, will launch from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg. Observers should note that the rocket will follow a southern trajectory, which can potentially be viewed from various points in the surrounding areas. Although the base’s launch complex does not permit public viewings, there are numerous vantage spots available where spectators can enjoy the spectacle.
For those interested in catching the launch, recommended viewing locations include public streets like 13th Street and Arguello Boulevard, or designated areas like Floradale Avenue near the launch complex. There are also great spots in nearby cities, including Lompoc and Ventura, offering picturesque settings for what promises to be an eye-catching liftoff.
Should the launch be delayed due to weather or technical difficulties, there is a backup opportunity planned for the following day, according to FAA advisories. Additionally, residents of nearby counties may hear sonic booms produced by the rocket, which occur when the spacecraft exceeds the speed of sound.
In a positive note for space enthusiasts, the expanding operations at Vandenberg Space Force Base indicate that 2026 will see an uptick in launches, including the highly anticipated debut of the Falcon Heavy rocket. This continued activity reflects a broader commitment to enhancing space access and exploration initiatives.
With a legacy rooted in innovation and exploration, SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk in 2002, remains at the forefront of commercial spaceflight, supporting both governmental and commercial missions from its California and Florida launch sites. As the countdown to the launch begins, the upcoming event serves as a thrilling reminder of advancements in space technology and the excitement that accompanies it.