SpaceX Falcon 9 - Vandenberg - Launch Viewing

[k_feickert]

Perhaps Jalama Regional Park:  MAP

Specifically this spot before crossing the tracks:  MAP

I would definitely need to make sure that Jalama doesn't get closed for the launch, it seems a lot of the Starlink launches lately are having the beach get evacuated which is causing some upset recently.

[k_feickert]

Hi NSF Community,
I forgot to post my report from Riverbend Park in Lompoc for the April 6, 2024 Starlink launch. This is an easy to get to location towards the North/East side of town. There was a LOT of parking available and numerous portable toilets if needed. The view towards SLC-3E is easy to see and 4E is just slightly to the left of it (see picture below). On takeoff there are some power lines directly at the start, but then it was an unobstructed view all the way through stage separation.

This park has a MASSIVE grass field, so if a launch gets scrubbed you can at least enjoy a picnic or throw a ball around. The airport approach is nearby, and you can get some great views of small aircraft flying around sometimes. One of the tracking stations is also visible from the park to the South.

Though from what I hear, this location gets extremely busy during Soccer season on Saturdays. Otherwise, this is usually an underutilized park. Hopefully if more people go here for watching launches maybe the local AYSO club could open their concessions stand... I can only dream

Riverbend Park is definitely in my top-3 locations so far, and I would definitely encourage anyone to check it out sometime!

[catdlr]

Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VANDENBERG RELEASES NEW LAUNCH ALERT MESSAGES

 VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. – July 25, 2024 – Vandenberg Space Force Base recently released a new launch alert messaging system to provide updates on launches and important news updates. The new system allows users to select from notification topic’s as well as how to receive notifications.

The system offers updates via text and email. To sign up for alerts, visit https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDODSFVANDENBERG/signup/41755

"With the rise in launch operations at Vandenberg, it is crucial for us to maintain clear and frequent communication with the local and regional community," said Col. Mark Shoemaker, Space Launch Delta 30 commander. "Our new alert system is designed to enhance transparency and keep residents informed."

In order to support transparency in Vandenberg launch operations, Vandenberg leadership has taken significant steps this year to aid in beach access and public awareness.  The base reworked launch operations to minimize beach closures, implemented a text message and email launch alert option, and continued a rigorous environmental monitoring process. The USSF works closely and continuously with federal and state regulatory agencies and partners to ensure the highest standards as evidenced by Vandenberg’s pristine 46 miles of continuous California coastline.

Launch information will still be posted on the base website at www.vandenberg.spaceforce.mil and all Vandenberg social media platforms: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

-30-

[catdlr]

Launch Alert
SpaceX is projected to launch a Falcon 9 from SLC-4 on 04 August between 00:00am and 04:00am.

THE LAUNCH AREA WILL CLOSE AT 9:00pm, 3 Aug!

 

CLOSURES

South VSFB (south of Arguello Rd. and Santa Ynez Ridge Rd.) will be closed until completion of hazardous launch activities.

All unauthorized personnel must vacate the closed area PRIOR to 9:00 PM, 3 Aug.

 

PUBLIC LAUNCH VIEWING

- For all on-base personnel and those who have access to base.

- Be aware of Snowy Plover restrictions.

- Do not park on main roads.

- Keep roads clear for emergency personnel.

- Park with your vehicle with the front facing out for efficient and safe egress.

- Carpooling is highly encouraged.

 

SAFETY

- Pay attention to traffic, pedestrians, and unsafe activity.

- If you see something unsafe, say something and stop the activity.

- Dress appropriately for weather conditions.

- Coast Gate will be only used for egress exit purposes.

 

PARKING

- If you are viewing the launch on base locations, do not pull over and park on main roads.

- Park in designated parking areas and do not park on vegetation (FIRE HAZARD).

- Be mindful of where you park so your vehicle doesn’t get stuck.

- Security Forces will be conducting safety and traffic patrols, any violators will be ticketed.

 

LOMPOC/OFF BASE VIEWING

- Remain respectful of public and private property.

- Do not trespass, litter, or park in unsafe areas.

- Park legally beware of EMERGENCY and NO PARKING locations.

 

OCEAN PARK & SURF STATION

- Sunset (Beach Closure) 2000 hrs.

- Do not walk on railroad tracks.

- Do not park on shoulder of Hwy 246 (emergency vehicles only).

- Coast Gate will be used for egress exit purposes, no entry.

- Do not loiter on roadways

- Again be aware of Snowy Plover restrictions.

*************************************************************************

Public Affairs is the only office authorized to release official news to media.

[catdlr]

If you have an airplane or know of a friend who has one, here is a video that provides information on the airport in Lompco, where you can land, view launches, and then fly home.


Lompoc Airport (KLPC) | Transient Parking Guide & Rocket Launch Viewing

Feb 14, 2025  LOMPOC CITY AIRPORT-LPC
Fly with us into friendly Lompoc City Airport onto Runway 25. This airport does have transient parking and self-service fuel. You’ll have a front row seat to Space X launches from this airport but watch out for the very busy skydiving operations here.

TRANSIENT PARKING
Transient parking can be found north of the runway. Look for the big beige hangar (biggest hangar on the north side of the field) – parking will be between that hangar and the fuel island. All spots are unmarked and have tie-down chains.

FUEL
Self-service fuel is available and located west of transient parking. It’s easy to spot from the transient parking. Self-service fuel prices are comparable to other regional airports. $15/night for single engine and $17/night for twin engines.

RESTROOMS
Restrooms are located inside the small airport building north of transient parking outside of the gate. You can also find a port-a-potty next to the fuel island.

CREW CAR / CAR RENTAL
You won’t find any crew cars or rental cars at the airport. Rideshare in the area can be unreliable. If you need a rental car, Enterprise Car Rentals is about a 20 min walk from the airport. Unfortunately, they do not provide a shuttle.

FOOD
There isn’t a café or restaurant on the field. You’ll find food options just a 15 minute walk away. Most of these options will be fast/casual eateries.

We flew in specifically for a Space X launch which was visible from the airport transient parking. However, we couldn’t figure out what else you’d fly into Lompoc for.

If you’ve visited Lompoc for something other than a Space X launch, let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear what you did while visiting Lompoc. 

Thanks for watching!

See you next week as we explore a new airport!

[catdlr]

https://twitter.com/trevormahlmann/status/1900804208917705165

This is the Transporter 13 SpaceX launch on March 15, 2025 at 11:30 p.m.

For future visitors wanting to view a launch from VSFB, this picture was taken at a Harris Grade Road turnabout on public land north of the base.  The timelapse photo contains the Boostback, Entry and landing burns.

Harris Grade Road Viewing site

[Cabbage123]

I'm booked into a hotel in Santa Maria on the 18th-19th, and hoping to catch NROL-145, which is currently scheduled @ 3.41am local on the 19th.

Reading through this thread it seems like Harris Grade Road might be the best bet (especially if there is fog). Is it likely to be busy for a launch at that time of night? (hoping that the time of day, and the number of flights that week, might thin out the crowds)

Wondering whether I try Harris Grade early and then head to Ocean Ave if Harris Grade is full.

Does the fact that it is an NRO flight might mean that certain locations are closed?

Any thoughts would be much appreciated.

[Cabbage123]

At Harris Grade viewpoint right now. Only two other cars and lots of fog

EDIT: The turnoff finally filled up about 20 minutes before launch. It would likely have filled up a lot earlier if the viewing had been better, because a lot of cars were pulling up, but then leaving and heading towards Lompoc. We stayed put, assuming that the height would give us a benefit during ascent. Launch was totally obscured, just the mist illuminated to indicate that something was happening. However, at about T+15 seconds we got a great view of the ascent and it remained visible for at least 60 seconds. No chance of seeing the entry burn of course, but there was potentially a hint of plume illuminated by the moon, which was just in the right place. Would probably be a fantastic location, without the fog, but even with the terrible viewing conditions last night, we still got an enjoyable view.

[catdlr]

For the F9 Starlink launch of Oct 27, they allowed civilians to view from the Amtrak/CoastStarliner train station parking lot at Surf, CA.  The video has been positioned to T-10 sec.  This will give you a good perspective of what it is like to witness a lunch there. After viewing the first minute, jump to 4:50 to view the launch and sound.


CALIFORNIASCAPES Vandenberg Launch, October 27, 2025

[cpushack]

Will be there for this launch, 3 years ago (nearly to the day) my wife and I watched this same booster launch on our honeymoon.

[Brigantine]

This is the last West Coast booster yet to launch since the late-December lull / OCISLY going for maintenance, resulting in a >2 month booster turnaround.

3 boosters will have already flown twice in 2026 (B1097, B1081, B1100) so B1063 is a bit late to the party

[catdlr]

Will be there for this launch, 3 years ago (nearly to the day) my wife and I watched this same booster launch on our honeymoon.

That's so nice.  My wife and I used to drive up the coast to Ventura to watch the Minuteman launches, especially when they launched just after sunset.  The exhaust trail was so beautiful to see.  I hope your trip to watch this launch brings back good memories from your honeymoon. And, Happy Anniversary.

Tony

[cpushack]

Will be there for this launch, 3 years ago (nearly to the day) my wife and I watched this same booster launch on our honeymoon.

That's so nice.  My wife and I used to drive up the coast to Ventura to watch the Minuteman launches, especially when they launched just after sunset.  The exhaust trail was so beautiful to see.  I hope your trip to watch this launch brings back good memories from your honeymoon. And, Happy Anniversary.

Tony

Thanks!  Its  long trip, as we are from Oregon, but worth it, and this year will be the first with a kid haha

[catdlr]

Will be there for this launch, 3 years ago (nearly to the day) my wife and I watched this same booster launch on our honeymoon.

That's so nice. My wife and I used to drive up the coast to Ventura to watch the Minuteman launches, especially when they launched just after sunset.  The exhaust trail was so beautiful to see.  I hope your trip to watch this launch brings back good memories from your honeymoon. And, Happy Anniversary.

Tony

Thanks!  Its  long trip, as we are from Oregon, but worth it, and this year will be the first with a kid haha

The Big Sur coastal route just reopened if you're willing to take an exciting ride to detour from boring Highway 101. Solvang is a kids' chocolate paradise, and there is a farm with miniature horses just a few miles north of town.  Hopefully, your child will experience the launch and become fascinated by it. I love the long drives up and down the pacific cost from Washington to LA.  Good luck and enjoy.

Tony