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

Canonical page: https://technooptimist.io/stories/spacex-launches-ussf-481-a-classified-payload-for-the-u-s-space-force-c409d2c3
Date: 15 Oct 2026
About: [SpaceX](https://technooptimist.io/companies/spacex.md) · [Falcon 9 & Falcon Heavy](https://technooptimist.io/spaceflight/falcon-9.md)
Original source: https://spaceflightnow.com/2026/10/15/live-coverage-spacex-to-launch-classified-payload-for-u-s-space-force/

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.

## Key facts

- 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.

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