SpaceX Postpones Rocket Launch at Vandenberg Until Sunday
A technical glitch involving ground system equipment has caused a delay in the final launch of 2025 from Vandenberg Space Force Base. The launch, originally scheduled for Saturday, has been rescheduled for Sunday at 6:08 p.m. from Space Launch Complex-4 on the South Base.
The mission, known as COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation, aims to deliver the FM satellite to low-Earth orbit in support of the Italian Space Agency and the Italian Ministry of Defence. Despite the delay, both the rocket and its payload remain in good condition, according to SpaceX.
Earlier in the day, SpaceX's team was monitoring weather conditions due to concerns about potential interference from windy weather. However, the weather conditions are now favorable for the launch.
The first-stage booster, making its 21st flight, will return to Vandenberg approximately eight minutes after liftoff. This landing may generate sonic booms that could be heard in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Luis Obispo counties, depending on atmospheric conditions.
A live webcast of the mission is available at spacex.com/launches and on X @SpaceX. For those interested in witnessing the launch in person, the Lompoc Valley offers multiple vantage points, including the peak of Harris Grade Road west of Lompoc's city limits and around Vandenberg Village.
Vandenberg launches near sunset or sunrise can be particularly stunning. Clear skies may allow viewers across California and potentially in other Western states to witness the rocket's departure.
