SpaceX prepares second attempt to launch 21 military data satellites

SpaceX is preparing to make another attempt to launch 21 data satellites for the United States Space Development Agency aboard a Falcon 9 rocket on October 10, 2026. Spaceflight Now reported that liftoff from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California is set for 12:39 a.m. PDT. The uncrewed rocket will fly on a southerly trajectory upon departure. [1][6]

The upcoming flight follows a launch attempt on October 5, 2026, which was halted during the final minute of the countdown. Spaceflight Now reported that an auto-abort stopped the clock with 58 seconds remaining. As FTMQ Space reported earlier, the uncrewed mission is sending 21 Space Development Agency satellites into low Earth orbit to join the Tranche 1 Transport Layer constellation. [1][6]

The Space Development Agency operates as a United States Space Force unit focused on deploying military technology, including global communication layers and missile-tracking constellations in low Earth orbit. The agency was managed by the United States Space Force starting in October 2022, placing 38 satellites in orbit by February 2024 with plans to operate at least 1,000 satellites by 2026. The agency launched its Tranche 0 demonstration satellites in 2023 and initial Tranche 1 operational satellites in 2024. [2][4]

The launch marks the fourth mission delivering production satellites to orbit for the agency. Spaceflight Now noted that Space Launch Complex 4E remains the only active West Coast launch facility operated by SpaceX. [1][6]