SpaceX launched a payload of military satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base that are intended to help improve the ability to detect and track missile launches around the world.
The 1:32 p.m. launch Thursday was the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) third Tranche 1 data transport mission. It was one of nine planned Tranche 1 missions to build a global network of the new specialized satellites.
The SDA’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture will be a network of optically connected satellites in low-Earth orbit.
It's intended to enhance U.S. global military tactical communications as well as missile warning and tracking capabilities.
The reusable first-stage booster that lifted the satellites into orbit landed on a barge off the West Coast after the launch.
SpaceX's next launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base is planned for Monday (6/20), when a Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled to carry 24 communications satellites into orbit. The launch window is from 7 to 11 a.m.
