What: Falcon 9 rocket launch at Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County.

When: Targeted for 3:28 p.m. Monday, according to SpaceX. Officials said the launch won’t occur after 7:28 p.m. Monday. An actual window for NRO missions typically isn’t released but spans less than four hours.

If needed, the team has a backup opportunity at 3:15 p.m. Tuesday.

Where: Space Launch Complex-4 on South Base.

Landing: The first-stage booster, making its second flight, will land on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship positioned in the Pacific Ocean.

Why: Deliver the National Reconnaissance Office mission known as NROL-172.

Watch: A live webcast of the mission is scheduled to begin about 10 minutes before liftoff at spacex.com/launches and on X @SpaceX.

To watch the liftoff in person, the Lompoc Valley has multiple locations offering views of the launch pad. Those include the peak of Harris Grade Road, west of Lompoc’s city limits and around Vandenberg Village, including near the intersection of Moonglow and Stardust roads. 

Vandenberg launches close to sunset or sunrise can be especially picturesque. If skies are clear, the rocket’s departure might be visible from elsewhere around California and, under certain conditions, other Western states.

Upcoming Launches: SpaceX plans additional Falcon rocket liftoffs from Vandenberg for Starlink missions on May 15 and May 18.

Launches can get delayed for a number of reasons including technical troubles with the rocket, payload or support equipment; unfavorable weather; and scheduling issues.