SpaceX
SpaceX launches NROL-149 satellite with new Falcon 9 mission
On December 17, 2024, SpaceX launched a new Falcon 9 rocket into orbit with NROL-149 satellite payload operated by the United States National Reconnaissance Office. As usual, the payload information and its designated orbit remain secret due to security reasons.
The rocket cleared the launch pad from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. SpaceX attempted the first launch opportunity for NROL-149 in the early morning as the mission supported the engine ignition at full power.
After sending the upper stage near orbit, Falcon 9 performed hot-staging, followed by the first stage boostback burn, and maneuvered back to the Earth.
Liftoff! pic.twitter.com/BXZGTpzCEP
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) December 17, 2024
This was the 22nd flight for the first stage booster and it previously supported Sentinel-6 Michale Freilich, DART, SDA-0B, Iridium OneWeb, Transporter-7, NROL-113, NROL-167, and 14 Starlink missions.
After consuming the final burn, the first stage expanded its landing legs and landed on the “Of Course I Still Love You” droneship stationed in the Pacific Ocean.
Falcon 9’s first stage has landed on the Of Course I Still Love You droneship pic.twitter.com/RgHgLgQ2h3
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) December 17, 2024
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