SPHEREx and punch set for Feb. 27 liftoff on SpaceX Falcon 9

NASA is gearing up for the launch of two groundbreaking missions, SPHEREx and PUNCH, set to lift off together on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The launch window opens at 10:09 p.m. EST (7:09 p.m. PST) on Thursday, February 27, with live coverage available on NASA+ and its social media platforms.

Unveiling the Mysteries of the Universe and the Sun

SPHEREx (Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization and Ices Explorer) is designed to enhance our understanding of cosmic evolution while searching for essential life-forming ingredients within the Milky Way. Meanwhile, the PUNCH (Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere) mission will study how the Sun’s outer atmosphere transitions into solar wind, helping scientists gain insights into space weather and its effects on Earth.

Prelaunch Events and Mission Briefings

NASA has scheduled multiple media briefings ahead of the launch:

• Tuesday, Feb. 25 – SPHEREx & PUNCH Science Overview (2 p.m. EST)
  Scientists from NASA, Caltech, and the Goddard Space Flight Center will discuss the missions’ objectives and expected impact.
• Wednesday, Feb. 26 – Prelaunch News Conference (3:30 p.m. EST)
  NASA officials, project managers, and SpaceX representatives will provide updates on launch preparations, weather conditions, and mission logistics.
• Thursday, Feb. 27 – Launch Day Coverage
  • 12 p.m. EST: Launch Preview (NASA+ livestream)
  • 9:15 p.m. EST: Live countdown coverage begins
  • 10:09 p.m. EST: Launch window opens

How to Watch

NASA will stream the launch live on NASA+, with additional coverage on its official website, including blog updates and real-time mission tracking. Audio-only feeds will be available through NASA’s “V” circuits at 321-867-1220 or -1240.

Join Virtually

Space enthusiasts can register as virtual guests for the launch, gaining access to curated resources and exclusive content. Participants will also receive a NASA virtual guest passport stamp following the mission’s successful liftoff.

For more information, visit NASA’s official website and follow the SPHEREx blog for real-time updates on the countdown and mission progress.