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39m ago

SpaceX Sets Friday Night Vandenberg Launch for NRO’s NROL-105 Mission

The flight extends the NRO’s proliferated constellation of small satellites aimed at faster coverage and more timely intelligence.

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Overview

  • A 35-minute window opens Friday, Jan. 16, at 8:18 p.m. PT for liftoff from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base.
  • The rocket is expected to head southeast, creating potential viewing opportunities across parts of Arizona after launch.
  • An FAA advisory lists a backup window on Saturday beginning at 8:04 p.m. PT if the attempt is delayed.
  • Falcon 9’s first stage is planned to return to Landing Zone 4 at Vandenberg, with the possibility of local sonic booms.
  • NROL-105 is the 12th launch in the NRO’s proliferated architecture, which the agency says increases revisit rates and speeds data delivery, though weather or technical issues could still postpone liftoff.