WORLDTECHSpaceX flies classified USSF-432 mission for US military on Falcon 9
According to one outlet, SpaceX has carried out another national security flight for the U.S. military, placing a classified payload into orbit on a Falcon 9. Liftoff came from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on November 7.
Launch site and timing
The report places the liftoff at Space Launch Complex 4E, part of Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, on November 7. From there, the rocket delivered the classified USSF-432 payload to orbit.
Who is behind the flight
SpaceX, a space company based in Hawthorne, offers the Falcon family of rockets among its products. The mission is designated USSF-432 and R-4 and adds another classified payload to the company's record of national security launches.
The report also notes that officials have not disclosed the spacecraft's identity, capabilities or precise objectives.
What remains unconfirmed
The report says a suspected link to a military satellite program offers some indication of the technology involved, but that connection has not been confirmed by officials.
Open questions
- What is the USSF-432 payload meant to do, and who operates it?
- Which military satellite program is the mission reportedly linked to?