In Photos: SpaceX Rocket Launches Secret Zuma Spacecraft, Then Lands

By Christine Lunsford
published

Launch Pad Swap

SpaceX

Because of the long launch delay for Zuma, SpaceX actually swapped launch pads for the mission. Here, the Falcon 9 carrying Zuma is seen at Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. SpaceX subsequently moved Zuma to its SLC-40 pad at the neighboring Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: community@space.com.

Christine Lunsford
Christine Lunsford
Producer and Contributing Writer

Christine Lunsford joined the Space.com team in 2010 as a freelance producer and later became a contributing writer, covering astrophotography images, astronomy photos and amazing space galleries and more. During her more than 10 years with Space.com, oversaw the site's monthly skywatching updates and produced overnight features and stories on the latest space discoveries. She enjoys learning about subjects of all kinds.