Hawthorne-based SpaceX launched 10 communications satellites into orbit Friday evening from Vandenberg Air Force Base near Santa Barbara, creating a streak of light visible to many people across Southern California.
The Falcon 9 rocket carrying the satellites launched at about 5:30 p.m. from Vandenberg, with the satellites expected to be deployed around 6:30 p.m.
The 10 satellites are part of Iridium's NEXT system, which will ultimately include 81 satellites. Friday's launch was the fourth set of 10 launched by SpaceX, which is scheduled to launch 75 of the 81 in the NEXT system. SpaceX plans to have all 75 satellites launched into orbit by mid-2018.
According to SpaceX, the satellite array will offer a "next- generation communications platform" known as Certus. The array will also include the Aireon aircraft tracking and surveillance system.
"In a historic first, upon completion this system will provide air traffic control organizations and aircraft operators that purchase the service with real-time, global visibility of ADS-B equipped aircraft."
Rocket https://t.co/I1dktbIvsh
— Alex Tardy Skiwxman (@SanDiegoWCMwx) December 23, 2017 - 1
~60 minutes until Falcon 9 launch of Iridium-4. Launch webcast will go live about 15 minutes before liftoff → https://t.co/gtC39uBC7z pic.twitter.com/rJ7ddLig3v
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) December 23, 2017 - 2
There were numerous calls into @SanDiegoPD Communications when the rocket launch from Vandenberg AFB was seen in our San Diego sky. pic.twitter.com/N0UeYQ5Uvu
— Shelley Zimmerman (@ChiefZimmerman) December 23, 2017 - 3
