VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, CA – SpaceX is poised to launch another batch of 24 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit today, August 12, 2026. The Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled to lift off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, with live coverage of the mission available to the public. This launch marks another step in SpaceX's ongoing effort to expand its Starlink constellation, which provides global broadband internet services.
Starlink Mission Details
The mission, designated Starlink Group 17-49, is set to launch from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg SFB. The Falcon 9 rocket assigned to this flight is booster B1103, marking its fifth mission. Following stage separation, the first-stage booster is expected to make a propulsive landing on the drone ship 'Of Course I Still Love You' stationed in the Pacific Ocean. This recovery attempt is a standard procedure for SpaceX, demonstrating their commitment to reusability.
The launch is targeted for August 12, with a launch window between 4:46 AM UTC and 6:00 AM UTC. Local time for the launch is August 11, 9:46 PM to 11:00 PM PDT.
Live Coverage and Viewing
SpaceX will provide live webcast coverage of the launch, typically beginning about ten minutes before liftoff. Viewers can tune in to the live stream on SpaceX's official website or their X (formerly Twitter) account. The successful deployment of the 24 Starlink satellites is anticipated approximately one hour after liftoff.
Sonic Boom Advisory
Residents in the vicinity of Vandenberg Space Force Base may experience one or more sonic booms as the Falcon 9 rocket ascends and its first stage returns for landing. The audibility and reach of these sonic booms depend on various atmospheric conditions at the time of launch.
SpaceX's Busy Launch Schedule
This launch is part of SpaceX's aggressive launch cadence in 2026. The company has been consistently launching Starlink missions from both its West Coast and East Coast launch sites. In addition to Starlink deployments, SpaceX is also preparing for other significant missions, including potential resupply missions to the International Space Station and human spaceflight endeavors.
The Starlink constellation is one of the largest satellite constellations in orbit, with the goal of providing high-speed, low-latency internet access to underserved and remote areas worldwide. As of August 2026, SpaceX has launched thousands of Starlink satellites, with plans to continue expanding the network.
Previous Launches and Booster History
Booster B1103, assigned to this mission, has a history of successful flights, including previous Starlink missions, NROL-179, and SDA-T1TL-E. This mission will be its fifth flight, showcasing the reliability and rapid turnaround capabilities of SpaceX's Falcon 9 program. The company's focus on reusability continues to drive down the cost of space access and increase launch frequency.
SpaceX's operational tempo in 2026 has been remarkable, with numerous launches from both Vandenberg Space Force Base in California and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This sustained activity underscores SpaceX's role as a leading provider of launch services for commercial, government, and scientific payloads.