Why was the SpaceX launch delayed from Vandenberg?

SpaceX paused the countdown after a launch-pad ground systems issue appeared during preflight checks. This was not a rocket or satellite problem. The team safed the vehicle and will troubleshoot, repair or replace hardware as needed, then retest. A fresh target will be set after engineering reviews and range coordination are complete.

Are the Falcon 9 and COSMO-SkyMed satellite affected by the delay?

SpaceX reported the rocket and Italy’s COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation payload are healthy. The issue involves pad equipment, so standard safing protected flight hardware. After engineers clear the ground fault and confirm support systems are good, the mission should proceed with the same vehicle and payload, pending routine readiness checks.

When will a new target for the SpaceX launch be announced?

A new time will be confirmed once teams finish troubleshooting and the range approves the slot. Updates usually appear on SpaceX channels and trusted outlets after readiness reviews. Timing depends on the fix and verification steps, so plan for a day-to-day update cadence rather than immediate confirmation.

Does the delay change mission risk or costs for this flight?

A short, ground-driven delay rarely changes mission risk or insurance terms. The main effect is schedule timing and resource planning. If teams clear the fault quickly and the next countdown is steady, investors should view this as a minor cadence shift with minimal financial or contractual impact.

Global Market Insights

SpaceX Launch December 29: Vandenberg Falcon 9 Final 2025 Delayed

ByHuzaifa Zahoor December 29, 2025December 29, 2025

The SpaceX launch from Vandenberg on December 29, planned as the final Falcon 9 of 2025, was delayed after a ground systems issue at the pad. SpaceX said the rocket and Italy’s COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation satellite are healthy, with a new target time to be confirmed. For U.S. investors, this SpaceX launch slip shows how ground assets can affect cadence, even when vehicles are ready. We explain the timing, mission impact, and what to watch next as teams recycle for another attempt.