spaceX

The payload is part of a network of satellites intended to enhance global military communications and missile launch detection.

The Transporter 17 flight took off from Vandenberg Space Force Base early Tuesday morning.

The first occurred on Monday. More launches are also planned for Thursday and Saturday, which could create early-morning sonic booms.

As part of the settlement, the Commission apologized for some comments made by commissioners about Elon Musk during a public hearing.

25 communications satellites launched into orbit.

The SpaceX Transporter 16 mission included 119 small payloads. Satellites monitoring the Earth's magnetic field provide key data for navigation.

A significant increase in launches from the base has led to more sonic booms.

The company has another launch planned for Sunday.

SpaceX launches 24 communications satellites from the Central Coast.

What was supposed to be the last launch of the year from Vandenberg Space Force Base became the base's first launch of 2026.