Overview

• A SpaceX Dragon capsule re-entering Earth's atmosphere on May 24, 2025, caused a sonic boom that startled Los Angeles residents.
• The capsule splashed down in the Pacific Ocean near Oceanside at approximately 10:44 p.m. PT after completing its mission to the International Space Station.
• Residents across Los Angeles, including areas like Venice, West Hollywood, and Highland Park, initially mistook the loud boom and shaking for an earthquake.
• The spacecraft had delivered about 6,700 pounds of crew supplies and equipment to the International Space Station before its return.
• Sonic booms from SpaceX operations have become a recurring issue for Southern California communities as the company plans over 90 rocket launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base by 2026.