I don’t have live access to current news in this turn, but I can share the latest publicly known context about Space Launch Complex 6 (SLC-6) at Vandenberg AFB and how recent developments have evolved.
Direct answer
- As of late 2023–early 2024, SpaceX secured a lease to use SLC-6 as a secondary pad at Vandenberg, with plans to reconfigure the site (demolish much of the Shuttle/Delta-era infrastructure) and add two Falcon landing pads for future missions. Construction was anticipated to begin in 2025–2026, with potential first launches from the pad in 2026–2027, depending on permitting, funding, and integration work.
- Delta IV Heavy activity at SLC-6 continued through 2022, including notable NRO missions, with Delta IV Heavy producing successful flights that marked the final Delta IV era operations from SLC-6.
- The site has historically hosted high-profile NRO payloads (KH-11/USA-314 and USA-338) and was involved in catalogued missions up to 2022, reflecting its important role in U.S. national security launches.
What to expect in the near term (contextual overview)
- SpaceX’s use of SLC-6 as a secondary pad aims to complement SLC-4E operations, similar to how SpaceX uses multiple pads elsewhere (e.g., LC-39A and SLC-40 at Cape Canaveral). Expect reconfiguration work, new transporter-erector arrangements, and new landing pad infrastructure as part of the modernization. First operational launches from the revamped SLC-6, if approved, would likely occur after late-2026, though schedules can slip.
- Delta IV Heavy missions from SLC-6 ended with the 2022 flight showcasing NRO payloads, marking the end of an era for Delta-era infrastructure at the site; subsequent activity has moved toward SpaceX’s planned upgrades.
Recent news sources you can check for the latest updates
- Official Vandenberg Space Force Base site and weekly round-ups for the latest base-level updates and mission briefs.
- Space industry outlets (SpaceNews, Spaceflight Now) and local TV coverage for launch schedules and site development status.
Illustrative note
- A typical path for a major facility like SLC-6 after a lease involves: (1) demolition of legacy structures not compatible with new systems, (2) construction of a modern horizontal integration facility, (3) installation of two Falcon landing pads to support recovery operations, and (4) phased test flights leading to operational launches. This mirrors SpaceX’s approach at other pads and aligns with announced plans for SLC-6.
If you’d like, I can monitor for updates and pull the latest confirmed dates and official statements, then summarize with direct citations.