SpaceX Launches NROL-153, Bolstering U.S. Spy Satellite Network

The mission deployed classified satellites for the National Reconnaissance Office, marking the seventh launch under its proliferated architecture strategy.

• A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched the NROL-153 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base on January 9, 2025, at 10:53 p.m. EST.
• The mission is part of the National Reconnaissance Office's effort to expand its low Earth orbit satellite constellation for enhanced intelligence and surveillance capabilities.
• The NROL-153 payload includes smaller, distributed satellites designed to improve resilience, responsiveness, and real-time data delivery for U.S. military operations.
• The Falcon 9's first-stage booster completed its 22nd mission, landing on the 'Of Course I Still Love You' drone ship in the Pacific Ocean.
• This launch underscores SpaceX's pivotal role in supporting U.S. national security through reusable rocket technology and a growing partnership with defense agencies.

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