Upcoming launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base, with Pacific times, countdowns and webcast links. 49 Vandenberg launches are listed; 3 have a day-level date.
☀ Twilight window means the planned time (NET) is about 20–60 minutes after sunset or before sunrise at Vandenberg, computed from standard solar formulas for 34.73°N, 120.57°W. It's approximate and only shown for minute-level times; launches often slip.
Viewing guide
Launches from Vandenberg are often visible from much of Southern California and the Central Coast, weather permitting. Visibility depends on the trajectory, time of day and marine layer, so no specific spot is guaranteed.
Twilight launches are the most striking. Shortly after sunset or before sunrise, the rocket and its exhaust plume climb into sunlight while the sky on the ground is dark, which can light up a glowing, spreading plume visible from far away.
Where to look. From the Los Angeles area, look northwest, toward the coast beyond Santa Barbara. The rocket usually appears a minute or two after liftoff as it climbs above the horizon.
Check before you go. Launch times change and scrubs are common, sometimes minutes before liftoff. Check the provider's webcast or feed right before you head out.
Sonic booms. Some launches with booster landings back at the base can produce sonic booms nearby.
Public viewing spots near Lompoc
Vandenberg is a closed installation with no public viewing on base. Lompoc's visitor bureau lists these public spots (checked 18 Oct 2026):
Ocean Park — About four miles from the launch site; the pad isn't visible but the rocket is soon after liftoff. Limited parking, and the park closes at sunset.
West Ocean Avenue — Roadside viewing; the city names the intersections at 13th Street & Arguello Blvd., Renwick Ave., and Floradale Ave. & Ocean Ave. Park carefully and don't block traffic.
Allan Hancock College (Lompoc campus) — Roughly nine miles away with a partial view of the pad. Paid parking; may be limited during class hours.
Beattie Park, Riverbend Park and Ryon Memorial Park — City parks with open lawns, parking and restrooms; no pad view, but the climbing rocket is visible.
Santa Lucia Canyon Road & Victory Road — Rural; partial views of SLC-3 and SLC-4. No parking, restrooms or food; spotty cell service.
The same source lists as currently closed for launch viewing: top of Harris Grade Road, Hawk's Nest (Camellia Lane / Azalea Lane), Marshallia Ranch Road and Highway 246. Source: Explore Lompoc — Best places to view a rocket launch. Check for closures before you go.
Stay safe and legal. Don't enter or trespass on Vandenberg Space Force Base property, and obey posted closures and road signs. Park legally, don't block traffic or driveways, and respect private property and neighbours.
Schedule data: Launch Library 2 by The Space Devs, retrieved 18 Oct 2026, 12:18 PT and refreshed daily. Dates are “no earlier than” (NET) and change often; TSD notes it cannot guarantee 100% accuracy. Always confirm with the launch provider. Webcast links are those listed in Launch Library 2.