LIVE: SpaceX launches classified US mission

Autonomous countdown initiated at T-minus 60 seconds

Falcon 9's onboard flight computers assumed full control of the launch sequence at T-minus 60 seconds, executing pressurization and final checks autonomously after the Launch Director gave final approval.

One million pounds of propellant loaded

The rocket was fully fueled with approximately one million pounds of RP-1 (refined kerosene) and liquid oxygen chilled to -300°F, completing loading roughly three minutes before liftoff.

Max Q and supersonic transition passed successfully

Falcon 9 throttled down to withstand maximum aerodynamic pressure before transitioning to supersonic speed, followed by Main Engine Cutoff (MECO) and successful stage separation approximately two and a half minutes into flight.

Flight-proven fairings jettisoned with no Stage 2 views

Both fairing halves—one on its 35th flight and the other on its third—separated successfully upon reaching vacuum, though no Stage 2 footage was broadcast per National Reconnaissance Office security requirements.

Successful boost back and entry burns executed

The booster performed a boost back burn to reverse course toward Vandenberg, followed by a 17-second entry burn that slowed the vehicle and deposited characteristic carbon soot from the Merlin engines onto its exterior.

Precision landing at Landing Zone 4

The first stage completed its third mission with a successful landing burn and touchdown at Vandenberg Space Force Base approximately eight minutes after liftoff, demonstrating reusability for classified national security missions.