Falcon 9 launch confirmed, sonic boom possible

Team Vandenberg is scheduled to support the launch of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying the RADARSAT Constellation Mission from Space Launch Complex-4 on Wednesday, June 12, with the launch window opening at 7:17 a.m. Pacific Time.  

Col. Bob Reeves, 30th Space Wing vice commander, will be the space launch commander. 

"Team V continues its dedication to assured access to space for the nation," said Reeves. "Partnership is vital to mission success, and we are proud to share the load of this mission with SpaceX."

SpaceX is attempting the secondary mission of landing the first stage of the Falcon 9 rocket at Landing Zone 4, which was previously called SLC-4W.

Local residents may see the first stage of the Falcon 9 returning to Vandenberg AFB, including multiple engine burns associated with the landing. During the landing attempt, residents from Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo counties may hear one or more sonic booms. A sonic boom is the sound associated with the shock waves from an aircraft or vehicle traveling faster than the speed of sound. Sonic booms generate a sound similar to an explosion or a clap of thunder. The sonic boom experienced will depend on weather conditions and other factors.

The public can view this launch from the Hawk's Nest on Azalea Lane off of Hwy 1 just over a mile south of Vandenberg AFB's main gate, which will open at 6 a.m. and close after the conclusion of the landing of the first stage.

For more information regarding the launch or public viewing location, visit the 30th Space Wing Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/30thSpaceWing/ or contact 30th Space Wing Public Affairs at (805) 606-3595.

For questions about the SpaceX mission, please contact SpaceX Media Relations at media@spacex.com.