Vandenberg Space Force Base in California will host a Falcon 9 launch of the U.S. Space Force’s USSF-153 mission on Thursday, September 10. The primary launch window runs from 8:37 a.m. to 11:37 a.m. Pacific Time, with a backup window scheduled for Friday, September 11, beginning at 8:23 a.m. PT.
Launch details and payload
The mission’s payload remains classified, and the U.S. Space Force has not released further specifics. News Channel 3-12 has requested additional information, but no further details have been made public.
A live webcast will begin roughly ten minutes before liftoff. Viewers can watch the stream on the station’s website or follow SpaceX’s official X (formerly Twitter) account for real‑time updates.
Booster reuse and recovery
Following first‑stage separation, the Falcon 9’s booster will attempt a controlled return to the Pacific Ocean, targeting the autonomous droneship named “Of Course I Still Love You.” This marks the 27th flight for the particular booster, which has previously supported a wide range of missions, including Crew‑7, CRS‑29, PACE, Transporter‑10, EarthCARE, NROL‑186, Transporter‑13, TRACERS, NROL‑48, COSMO‑SkyMed Second Generation FM3, and sixteen Starlink deployments.
Local impact
Residents in the surrounding area may hear one or more sonic booms as the vehicle ascends. The distance the sound travels will depend on weather conditions and other variables at launch time. Local authorities have advised the public to stay informed through official channels for any safety notices.
The launch underscores Vandenberg’s continued role as a key West Coast launch site for national security and scientific missions. The base’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean provides an ideal corridor for polar and sun‑synchronous orbits, which are common for classified U.S. Space Force payloads.
What to watch
Space enthusiasts should keep an eye on the webcast for the launch sequence, booster separation, and the droneship landing attempt. Successful recovery of the first stage helps reduce launch costs and supports SpaceX’s broader goal of rapid reusability.
For the latest updates, follow the Vandenberg Space Force Base public affairs office, SpaceX’s X account, and local news outlets covering the event.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
