SpaceX Falcon 9 successfully launched NRO’s NROL-105 mission

SpaceX has launched a new Falcon 9 rocket and deployed the NRO’s NROL-105 mission, adding another national security satellite deployment into its space mission portfolio.

The launch took place from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The target time was Friday, January 16, 2026, with the window opening at 8:18 p.m. PT. A backup opportunity existed on Saturday, January 17, at 8:04 p.m. PT. The mission lasted about 35 minutes from liftoff to completion.

The first-stage booster was on its second flight, having previously supported one Starlink mission. After stage separation, the booster performed a return-to-launch-site landing on Landing Zone 4 (LZ-4) at Vandenberg.

The payload involved a batch of reconnaissance satellites. These contribute to the NRO’s proliferated satellite architecture, a strategy that deploys many small satellites across orbits. This approach creates a resilient constellation, reducing risks from single failures and improving coverage for intelligence collection. NROL-105 marked the twelfth such deployment in this ongoing effort.

Details about the exact number of satellites, specific capabilities, or precise orbit remain classified, as is standard for NRO missions. The satellites support vital U.S. government agencies by providing essential reconnaissance data.

SpaceX provided a live webcast starting about 10 minutes before liftoff. The company shared countdown timelines, covering events like propellant loading, engine ignition, Max Q, stage separation, fairing deployment, and the booster landing at approximately T+7 minutes and 40 seconds.

Falcon 9’s first stage lands on LZ-4 pic.twitter.com/LTPjf3MWH4

— SpaceX (@SpaceX) January 17, 2026

Residents in areas such as Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties were advised of possible sonic booms from the booster’s descent, depending on weather conditions.

(source)