November 9, 2024, 1:32 pm 383 Comment SpaceX launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base on November 8, 2024 caused a sonic boom for most of the surrounding areas (courtesy photo) Residents of Santa Barbara County were treated to an unexpected rumble in the evening sky Friday, as a sonic boom reverberated throughout the region. The source of this startling sound was identified as a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, which took off from Vandenberg Space Force Base at precisely 10:14 p.m. on November 8. The mission involved the successful launch of 20 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. Notably, 13 of these satellites are equipped with Direct to Cell capabilities, enhancing connectivity options. This launch took place from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E), a site with a growing history of supporting various space missions. Friday’s launch marked the 11th journey for the Falcon 9’s first stage booster, an impressive feat showcasing the reusability aspect of SpaceX’s launch vehicles. This particular booster has a storied history, having previously facilitated a wide range of missions including NASA Crew-7, CRS-29, NROL-186, EarthCARE, Transporter-10, PACE, and now five Starlink missions. The Falcon 9’s passage through the atmosphere at an incredible speed resulted in the sonic boom that caught many residents by surprise. This phenomenon occurs when an object in flight surpasses the speed of sound, creating a thunderous noise that can be heard over vast areas. Edhat received reports of “what was that noise?” and “gunshot or firework” late Friday night as most people from Santa Maria to Carpinteria experienced the noise. SpaceX launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base on November 8, 2024 caused a sonic boom for most of the surrounding areas (courtesy photo) SpaceX’s Starlink project aims to provide high-speed internet access across the globe, particularly in underserved or remote areas. The addition of satellites with Direct to Cell capabilities promises to further extend the reach of connectivity, making cellular service available in places previously lacking coverage. The successful launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base continues to highlight the central role of California’s Central Coast in the nation’s space endeavors. As SpaceX forges ahead with its ambitious Starlink project, Santa Barbara County residents may well find themselves listening out for more sonic booms in the night sky, heralding further advances in space technology and connectivity. Video of the launch can be seen below: Lighting the night sky with Falcon 9 liftoff pic.twitter.com/2vBXQi3RKG