SpaceX Launches Classified NROL-97 Satellite Mission Amid Close Orbital Approaches

SpaceX prepares the NROL-97 launch, a classified National Reconnaissance Office payload, using a Falcon 9 from Cape Canaveral; the mission will place a data‑collection satellite into low‑Earth orbit and aims to recover the first stage on an autonomous drone ship.

NASA will broadcast live coverage of the launch and the spacecraft’s arrival at the International Space Station, marking the 35th cargo resupply flight; the agency will provide telemetry, video feed, and post‑flight analysis for public and scientific audiences.

Orbital Radar notes the launch window coincides with several close orbital approaches, requiring heightened tracking and collision‑avoidance measures; the radar team will monitor debris and coordinate with SpaceX to ensure safe passage for the new satellite.

Mission Control will oversee the countdown, verify vehicle health, and execute the final launch commit; after liftoff, the payload will separate at approximately 20 minutes, then perform a series of orbital maneuvers to reach its designated data‑gathering orbit.