SpaceX is set to launch a classified mission for the U.S. Space Force today, September 10. The Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled for liftoff from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California within a three-hour window beginning at 11:37 a.m. EDT (1537 GMT; 8:37 a.m. local time). The flight, designated USSF-153, will be broadcast live via SpaceX’s channels starting approximately ten minutes before ignition.
Because the mission is classified, specific details regarding its payloads and orbital destinations remain undisclosed. Observers expect the live webcast to conclude shortly after the Falcon 9’s first stage returns to Earth, making it difficult to determine the nature of the cargo from the broadcast alone. The booster is anticipated to touch down on a SpaceX drone ship in the Pacific Ocean roughly 8.5 minutes after launch.
Despite the lack of official details, the landing zone may offer clues about the mission’s objectives. According to NextSpaceflight.com, the drop zone aligns precisely with those used during previous Starlink Group 15 launches, suggesting the payload could include a batch of classified low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. These satellites are believed to utilize SpaceX’s Starshield satellite bus, a platform designed for national security applications.
SpaceX describes Starshield as a program that leverages its Starlink technology and launch capabilities to support government efforts. While Starlink operates a massive constellation of over 11,000 active broadband satellites, Starshield adapts that infrastructure for secure, defense-oriented uses.
This flight marks the 104th Falcon 9 mission of 2026, continuing a busy year that has already seen 80 flights dedicated to expanding the Starlink megaconstellation. The vehicle’s first stage, Booster 1081, is scheduled for its 27th flight, adding to an impressive resume that includes Crew-7, CRS-29, PACE, and multiple Transporter and NROL missions. The current record for booster reuses stands at 37, set by a different Falcon 9 during a Starlink launch last month.
Classified payloads always leave me wanting more detail. Hope they release at least a high-level summary later.
Vandenberg again. Does this mean more polar orbit capability for the Space Force? The drop zone clues are fascinating.
So it’s likely another batch of Starshield satellites? I wonder what kind of sensors they are carrying.
27th flight for that booster is absolutely insane. The reusability tech just keeps getting better!