Visitor's Magazine
Plan Your Adventure Today
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Did you know that California’s Central Coast is home to a Space Force base that regularly launches rockets and missiles? The Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), located in one of SLO CAL’s neighboring cities of Lompoc, is the West Coast’s only space and missile facility. VSFB is home to Space Launch Delta 30, which manages all launch and range missions on the base, including launch activities for Space Force, Air Force, Department of Defense, NASA, United Launch Alliance, SpaceX, Firefly Aerospace and other commercial space partner organizations. Only approved personnel are allowed inside Vandenberg, however SLO CAL’s coastline and viewing sites are the perfect place to witness rocket launches once they are airborne. Check out our blog to find some of the best beaches and parks for viewing opportunities.
PREPARE LIKE AN ASTRONAUT
For those traveling from out of town, space launch schedules are only determined safe by many uncontrollable factors, such as the weather, which can also affect local views. Please be flexible with your planning, you never know when a delay will occur and you never know how quickly the base will reschedule! We recommend staying for a few days just in case; there is lots to do in SLO CAL to fill the rest of your time!
Starlink Group
Falcon 9 Block 5
SpaceX
Last timing update: April 2026
STP-329A
Minotaur IV
Northrop Grumman Space Systems
Last timing update: April 7, 2026
VICTUS HAZE Jackal
Firefly Alpha Block 2
Firefly Aerospace
Last timing update: June 2026
Rivada 10
Falcon 9 Block 5
Space X
Last timing update: June 2026
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