Dense fog kept some spectators from seeing the Falcon 9 rocket making its final liftoff of 2024 from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Saturday, but the departure still could be heard.
The two-stage rocket built by SpaceX blasted off at 5:58 p.m. from Space Launch Complex-4 to deliver 22 Starlink satellites into orbit.
The thick fog — which prompted the National Weather Service to issue an advisory warning drivers visibility may be restricted to one-quarter-mile or less — meant even the cameras at the launch pad struggled to see Falcon rocket.
SpaceX later confirmed the 22 satellites deployed as planned.
Eight minutes after liftoff, the rocket’s first-stage booster successfully landed on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship, completing its 16th mission.
Liftoff also meant the end of a busy month and year for the SpaceX launch team on the West Coast.
The team saw five Falcon launches during December for a variety of customers.
Since Jan. 1, the firm has conducted 46 Falcon launches from Vandenberg.
While the mission marked the end for Vandenberg in 2024, the East Coast team isn’t done for the year. SpaceX expects to end 2024 with 134 liftoffs, two shy of the prior goal.
“Ultimately, there is only one number that truly matters. ZERO failures. Our priority is – and will remain – safety and reliability above all else,” said Kiko Dontchev, vice president of launches for SpaceX.
“Lastly, a huge shout out to the men and women of @SpaceX. 2024 would simply be a dream without your relentless dedication and ingenuity. Here’s to an awesome last couple of days in 2024 and an even better 2025!”
Overall, Vandenberg saw 51 launches of rockets to deliver satellites and intercontinental ballistic missiles equipped with mock warheads during the year.
Next year could see even more missions from the base as SpaceX looks to add a second launch pad, a proposal that has thrilled supporters and irked detractors upset at the noise.
In conjunction with the increased activity and the addition of missions from Space Launch Complex-6, a contractor will prepare an environmental impact statement to collect comments made in person at multiple meetings or submitted in writing during January.