SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch visible across Northern California

The rocket carried 25 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 5:41am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A bold, abstract painting in earthy tones depicting the launch of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, with sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise spirals representing the structural forces and energy of the launch.The powerful launch of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lights up the evening sky over Northern California, captivating local residents with the sheer force of the company's space technology.Today in Sacramento

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Monday evening, creating a visible vapor trail that was seen across Northern California. The rocket carried 25 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit.

Why it matters

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket launches have become a common sight in the skies over California, as the company continues to build out its Starlink satellite internet network. These launches are of interest to many residents who enjoy seeing the rocket's vapor trail light up the evening sky.

The details

The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base around 7:49 pm on Monday. Several viewers in Northern California, including in the Sacramento and Sonora areas, captured photos and videos of the rocket's vapor trail as it arced across the sky.

  • The Falcon 9 rocket launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base around 7:49 pm on Monday, April 7, 2026.

The players

SpaceX

An American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company founded by Elon Musk.

Vandenberg Space Force Base

A United States Space Force facility located on the Pacific coast of California, about 150 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket launches continue to be a source of fascination and excitement for many Californians, who enjoy witnessing the powerful rockets light up the evening sky as the company expands its Starlink satellite network.