SpaceX Falcon 9 Set for Classified Launch on 26 September 2026
SpaceX Falcon 9 is scheduled to launch a classified mission for the U.S. Space Force today. The Starlink network now has 9,940 active satellites.
| Active satellites | 15,745 |
| Starlink active | 9,940 |
| Catalogued objects | 31,357 |
| Active close approaches | 19 |
| People in space | 10 |
SpaceX is poised to launch a classified mission for the U.S. Space Force from the West Coast today, 26 September 2026. The Falcon 9 rocket, known for its reliability and reusability, will carry out this mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base. Details of the payload remain undisclosed, reflecting the sensitive nature of the operation.
Starlink Network Expansion
As of 26 September 2026, the Starlink satellite network has grown to 9,940 active satellites, according to Orbital Radar tracking data. This expansion is part of SpaceX's ongoing efforts to provide global broadband internet coverage. The total number of Starlink satellites launched stands at 11,133, with 937 currently raising their orbits and 256 in the process of deorbiting.
Close Approaches in Orbit
Several close approaches between satellites have been recorded recently, highlighting the increasing congestion in low Earth orbit (LEO). Notably, TIANHUI 5A and TIANHUI 5B came within approximately 0.91 km of each other. Such events underscore the importance of space situational awareness, which can be explored further through the Orbital Radar SSA hub.
What to Watch
While no new launches are scheduled immediately after today's SpaceX mission, several developments are worth monitoring. NASA and Boeing are set to provide updates on the Starliner development, which could impact future crewed missions. Additionally, NASA's testing of a dual-mode propulsion CubeSat is a significant step in advancing small satellite capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch on 26 September 2026?
How many Starlink satellites are currently active?
📎 Cite this article · data available
Orbital Radar Newsroom. (2026). SpaceX Falcon 9 Set for Classified Launch on 26 September 2026. Orbital Radar. https://orbitalradar.com/blog/orbital-briefing-2026-09-26"SpaceX Falcon 9 Set for Classified Launch on 26 September 2026." Orbital Radar, 26 September 2026, https://orbitalradar.com/blog/orbital-briefing-2026-09-26.@misc{orbitalradar_orbital_briefing_2026_09_26,
title = {SpaceX Falcon 9 Set for Classified Launch on 26 September 2026},
author = {{Orbital Radar}},
year = {2026},
howpublished = {\url{https://orbitalradar.com/blog/orbital-briefing-2026-09-26}}
}
