California’s space coast is gearing up for another exciting week as SpaceX prepares to carry out the sixth and seventh rocket launches of 2026 from Vandenberg Space Force Base — both missions dedicated to expanding the company’s global Starlink internet network.
After closing out 2025 with a record-breaking number of launches, SpaceX has wasted no time continuing its momentum into the new year. The Elon Musk–led aerospace company is once again on pace to shatter its own West Coast launch records, with Vandenberg emerging as a central hub for its operations.
For skywatchers across California — and even parts of Arizona — the upcoming launches could offer spectacular viewing opportunities. However, as with all spaceflight operations, schedules remain fluid. Weather conditions, technical checks, and operational priorities can all lead to last-minute delays or changes. Those planning to watch are encouraged to stay updated through official mission updates and local coverage.
Below is a look at the upcoming SpaceX launch schedule from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County.
Thursday, January 29, 2026 – Starlink 17-19
SpaceX is scheduled to kick off the week with the Starlink 17-19 mission, which will deploy 25 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The launch will use a Falcon 9 rocket, a reusable, two-stage launch vehicle standing approximately 230 feet tall.
The launch window opens at 7:17 a.m. PT and runs through 11:17 a.m. PT. Liftoff will take place from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base. After completing its primary mission, the Falcon 9’s first-stage booster is expected to land on SpaceX’s autonomous drone ship, “Of Course I Still Love You,” stationed in the Pacific Ocean.
Monday, February 2, 2026 – Starlink 17-32
Just days later, SpaceX plans to return to the same launch pad for the Starlink 17-32 mission. Like the earlier flight, this mission will also carry 25 Starlink satellites aboard a Falcon 9 rocket.
The launch window mirrors the earlier mission, opening from 7:17 a.m. to 11:17 a.m. PT on Monday, February 2. The rocket will again lift off from Space Launch Complex 4E, with booster recovery targeted aboard the same drone ship in the Pacific.
Together, these back-to-back missions underscore SpaceX’s aggressive launch cadence and its ongoing push to build out the Starlink satellite constellation. Once deployed, the satellites will help expand high-speed internet coverage across underserved and remote regions around the world.
As Vandenberg continues to play a growing role in SpaceX’s launch strategy, residents along the California coast can expect more frequent rocket activity in the months ahead — and plenty of chances to look up and catch history in motion.
