Falcon 9 Block 5 | SDA Tranche 1 Transport Layer F
🕑 Local: Wed, Dec 30, 4:00 PM PST
🌴 Pacific: Wed, Dec 30, 4:00 PM PST
Time precision: Quarter 4
Pad: Space Launch Complex 4E
Location: Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA
Rocket: Falcon 9 Block 5
Provider: SpaceX
Orbit: Polar Orbit
Mission
Tranche 1 Transport Layer F is one of six missions by the United States Space Force Space Development Agency (SDA) for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) Tranche 1 Transport Layer constellation, which will provide assured, resilient, low-latency military data and connectivity worldwide to the full range of warfighter platforms from Low Earth Orbit satellites. The constellation will be interconnected with Optical Inter-Satellite Links (OISLs) which have significantly increased performance over existing radio frequency crosslinks. It is expected to operate over Ka band, have stereo coverage and be dynamically networked for simpler hand-offs, greater bandwidth and fault tolerance.
👀 Where to watch
Lompoc area viewpoints (West Ocean Ave, Allan Hancock College)
Explore Lompoc lists West Ocean Ave intersections (13th St & Arguello, Renwick, Floradale) and Allan Hancock College (partial pad view) as public spots. As of Oct 2026 the top of Harris Grade Rd, Hawk's Nest, Marshallia Ranch Rd and Hwy 246 are closed to launch viewing. Coastal fog (marine layer) often hides launches; twilight launches can produce spectacular 'jellyfish' plumes visible across Southern California.
Surf Beach / Ocean Park
Near the base boundary; access is seasonally restricted (snowy plover nesting) and may be closed for launches. Check Vandenberg/County notices.
🧳 Plan your trip
🏨 Places to stay near Lompoc, CA
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from bookings made through this map, at no extra cost to you.
Tip: launches slip often. Book refundable, arrive early, and recheck the time the morning of launch.