SpaceX launches USSF-481, a classified payload for the U.S. Space Force, from Vandenberg

SpaceX/Falcon 9 & Falcon Heavy

SpaceX flew a Falcon 9 on mission USSF-481 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, carrying a classified payload for the U.S. Space Force. The rocket's first stage landed back on a droneship, so the booster can fly again. The payload itself is not named publicly.

• Launch time was 5:01 p.m. PDT on October 15, 2026 (0001 UTC on October 16), from Space Launch Complex 4 East.
• Booster B1081 landed on the droneship Of Course I Still Love You.
• Hazard warnings point to a low Earth orbit inclined about 80 degrees.
• USSF-481 is also referred to as TH-2 in public notices.