News Summary
SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, sending 28 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The launch lit up the night sky and was visible across several counties, with residents reporting a sonic boom. This mission contributes to the global expansion of SpaceX’s high-speed internet service, Starlink, which aims to enhance connectivity worldwide. The first-stage booster remarkably completed its 28th flight and made a controlled landing on a drone ship in the Pacific Ocean, marking another milestone for the company.
Santa Barbara County, California
SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County on Sunday evening, just after 7 p.m. The mission sent 28 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its global high-speed internet service.
Residents across Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and Orange counties were able to view the impressive launch, which lit up the night sky and was visible for miles. Many observers reported hearing a sonic boom shortly after the lift-off, a phenomenon expected by SpaceX due to the rocket’s speed.
The Falcon 9 rocket utilized a first-stage booster that completed its 28th flight supporting various Starlink satellite launches. After successfully propelling the satellites into orbit, the first stage booster made a controlled landing on a drone ship named “Of Course I Still Love You,” which was stationed in the Pacific Ocean.
Launch Details
The Falcon 9 mission was ideally timed, with a favorable weather forecast indicating clear skies, a temperature of approximately 68°F, 3% cloud cover, and a calm wind speed of 8 mph. This combination allowed the launch to proceed without complications, maintaining SpaceX’s commitment to regular satellite deployment.
The current mission contributes to the ongoing expansion of the Starlink satellite constellation, which operates at an altitude of about 340 miles. These satellites aim to provide high-speed internet access worldwide, establishing a modern internet service alternative to traditional satellite systems. By employing thousands of satellites in low-Earth orbit, Starlink significantly improves data latency and overall performance.
Sonic Boom Alert
Prior to the launch, residents in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties were warned that they might hear sonic booms. These sounds result from objects traveling faster than the speed of sound, creating brief noises comparable to thunder. However, there was no expectation of any sonic booms occurring over populated areas along the southern California coast.
SpaceX’s Launch History
SpaceX has established itself as a leader in satellite deployment with numerous launches from both California and Florida aimed at delivering Starlink satellites into orbit. Vandenberg Space Force Base is managed by Space Launch Delta 30, a unit of the U.S. Space Force, and serves as a site for both military and commercial launch operations.
As the Starlink network continues to grow, satellite formations can sometimes be observed shortly after sunset or before sunrise, appearing in lines across the sky as they reflect sunlight. This phenomenon has gathered attention and interest among residents in areas served by the satellite constellation.
Subscription Information
For those interested in signing up for Starlink’s residential internet service, subscriptions start at approximately $80 per month. The service positions itself as a cost-effective and efficient solution, particularly in rural and underserved areas where traditional internet options may fall short.
Overall, the successful launch of 28 Starlink satellites marks another milestone in SpaceX’s mission to provide enhanced internet access globally, while showcasing the company’s innovative technology and dedication to expanding its services.
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Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
