SpaceX is targeting Sunday, August 10, 2025, for another Starlink mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base, with a Falcon 9 set to carry 24 satellites to low-Earth orbit. Weather permitting, the launch could create a bright spectacle over much of Southern California, similar to past flights that lit up skies from San Diego through Los Angeles and beyond.
The mission will lift off from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC‑4E) at Vandenberg. According to SpaceX, the first-stage booster—flying its fifth mission—will land on the autonomous droneship “Of Course I Still Love You” stationed in the Pacific Ocean following stage separation. A live webcast will begin about five minutes before liftoff on SpaceX’s website.
What to know
– Launch site: Vandenberg Space Force Base, SLC‑4E
– Payload: 24 Starlink internet satellites to low-Earth orbit
– Booster: On its 5th flight
– Recovery: Landing on droneship “Of Course I Still Love You” in the Pacific
– How to watch: Live webcast starts about five minutes before liftoff at SpaceX.com
Why you might see it
If the launch occurs near sunrise or sunset, high-altitude sunlight can illuminate the rocket’s exhaust plume, creating a striking “jellyfish” effect visible across Southern California for several minutes. Because the booster is targeting an ocean droneship landing, sonic booms over land are not expected.
About Falcon 9
Falcon 9 is SpaceX’s reusable, two-stage orbital rocket designed to reliably deliver payloads and crew to Earth orbit and beyond. Reusability—highlighted by this booster’s fifth flight—helps reduce costs and increase launch cadence.
About Starlink
Starlink is a low-Earth orbit satellite network built to provide high-speed broadband for homes, businesses, and mobile users. The constellation operates around 550 kilometers above Earth, with user terminals on the ground connecting to satellites overhead to enable streaming, video calls, online gaming, and more.
Additional context and comments
– Visibility tips: For the best chance to spot the rocket, get to a location with a clear view of the horizon and minimal light pollution. Keep an eye on SpaceX’s updates for the exact liftoff time; a launch near twilight often produces the most dramatic views.
– Community impact: Starlink launches continue to expand internet coverage, particularly benefiting rural and underserved areas where traditional broadband has been limited or unreliable.
– Safety note: The display is bright but safe to watch with the naked eye. Binoculars can enhance the view, especially during the early ascent and stage separation.
Summary
SpaceX plans to launch 24 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg on Sunday, August 10, 2025. The reusable Falcon 9 booster—on its fifth flight—is set to land on the droneship “Of Course I Still Love You.” A webcast will begin approximately five minutes before liftoff, and Southern California skywatchers may be treated to a vivid plume if the timing aligns with twilight.