Thousands of people throughout the Tri-Counties, and beyond saw a spectacular sight Thursday night.
SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, which carried more than 50 small satellites into orbit from the Central Coast
SpaceX put on a real show, with the launch coming right at sunset. The Falcon 9 rocket, and its contrail was clearly visible throughout much of the state.
The rocket carried 53 StarLink satellites into orbit. They are part of a growing network of small satellites intended to provide internet service to underserved parts of the globe.
The first stage rocket landed on a barge off of Baja California, so it can be reused.
It’s the busiest year for flights in SpaceX history. This was its 49th flight in 2022.