#VisitTitusvilleFL

If you are visiting Florida and want to create a great launch photograph but the launch is at night, take a look at this relatively simple technique that will yield some awesome results: a launch streak shot.

Launch streaks are not difficult for nearly any photographer to create, and it doesn’t take any specialized equipment other than a wide-angle lens and a relatively inexpensive shutter release cable used to keep the shutter of your camera open for several minutes during the flight of the rocket. You’ll also need a tripod that can support the camera as well.

Below is a basic procedure and you too can create a memorable photo that will be one that you keep for years.

Here’s what you need:

Equipment Checklist
Camera DSLR, mirrorless, or film camera
Battery Fully charged — a dead battery mid-exposure is no fun at all
Lens Wide-angle, preferably 24mm or less. A 35mm may work if you’re farther from the pad, but 24mm is best within 20 miles of the launch site.
Tripod Sturdy tripod
Remote Locking shutter release cable
Mindset Patience

That’s it. The release cable can be purchased on Amazon for less than $50 for most major brands, and for some cameras, the price is a lot less than that: I’ve used a $15 Nikon cable for years with different cameras.

Where To Go?

That’s up to you, and I have seen great launch streak shots taken from Orlando, Daytona Beach, even West Palm Beach and Tampa.

Click here for an Interactive Map of SLC-40 Viewing Locations

If you are visiting the theme parks in Orlando, I’d recommend making a short trip east and going to one of the local parks on US-1 north in Titusville, or perhaps on the beaches on Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach. There are other sites, such as KARS Park (limited hours, small admission fee) or the Banana River Bridge on FL-528W, but for the purposes of this article, let’s assume that you’re going to Titusville. It’s easy to get to, easy to get in and out of, is safe and has plenty of police nearby to guide traffic and ensure public safety.

map of titusville parks

You’ll need a clear view of the horizon and sky to to the general direction of the launch itself. For example, most SpaceX Falcon 9 launches carrying Starlink satellites are to the southeast, while every launch towards the International Space Station are in the opposite direction — to the northeast. If the launch is carrying satellites to geo-stationary orbit, it’s a safe bet that the rocket will fly close to due east from the launch pad.

One direction that rockets will never fly in Florida is to the west, over land. Unless something goes very, very wrong.

When To Go?

First things first: check the weather. Check the launch status. See below for more information on how to do that. Rockets don’t launch in thunderstorms or steady rain, and winds cancel launches almost as often as rain. Thunderstorm clouds (anvil clouds) near the launch pad? Scrub. Know before you go is the key phrase to remember here. And don’t forget: things change fast with Florida weather.

National Weather Service Radar

Assuming everything is still a “go” my personal recommendation is to arrive at your selected viewing location at least an hour in advance – and it is better to get there before that if you can swing it. You’ll want plenty of time to park, orient yourself to the launch pad, and set up your gear and check it twice. I also like to take a quick test shot before liftoff to ensure I’m ready to go and to check my composition.

The one-hour time buffer will work for a regular launch like a SpaceX Starlink mission. If it is a major launch like Artemis II, you’ll want to be in place at least 2-4 hours in advance. Tune in to local news for up-to-the-minute information.

A Word About Scrubs and Delays

I’ve been to launches that were scrubbed with a minute or less to go and a couple after ignition of the engines. Delays of an hour or more are also possible, especially when the weather is so-so. Be aware of that, and be ready for it to happen and hope it doesn’t.

Rocket launches are peculiar beasts, and they can be delayed or postponed at any time for any reason.

On the other hand, I have waited for launches that I was 100% certain would be called off thanks to weather. Then at the last minute, things were perfect and the rocket flew off the pad at the time that was planned days in advance. You just never know.

How Do I Get Updates While I Wait?

As long as you have a good signal on your cell phone (another reason I recommend Titusville), you should be able to keep up with the launch status relatively easily. That’s important to do, because as I mention above, rocket launches are quite often delayed or scrubbed (canceled for the day) if everything is not right.

The weather has to be within acceptable limits, the rocket itself has to be in fully working order, and, on top of that, the areas at sea and in the air along the rocket’s flight path have to be clear. In short, thousands of different things have to go right for a rocket to launch, but only one thing has to not be right for the launch to be scrubbed or delayed.

No one will remember a scrub or a delay, but no one will ever forget a launch failure.

Websites

Space Launch Schedule

It’s free to use, is accurate, and has really nice features like a countdown clock that comes in handy while I’m waiting to see watch liftoff. They have apps for both Android and Apple, as well as a website online that has the same information. They don’t charge for access, though the site and apps are ad-supported.

If you are a Facebook user, Space Launch Schedule also has an active user group that’s a good source of information and inspiration. Later on, you can share your photo(s) there as well.

Next Spaceflight

This site is part of the NASA Spaceflight but it is largely fed by the same information service as Space Launch Schedule. The real difference is that Next Spaceflight can be quicker to update in terms of changing times or even scrubs — that’s because they have the Spaceflight Now team providing information. That’s not to say Space Launch Schedule is not timely, it is, but I think Next Spaceflight is a little quicker.

Space Launch Schedule has a very accurate countdown clock for each launch. Also, check out their “Watch In Person” link — they have some great tips.

YouTube: Spaceflight Now

Spaceflight Now is a space news website and news service that also provides launch coverage on YouTube. They start about an hour before liftoff, and are an excellent source for up-to-the-minute status updates. SFN offers a countdown clock, views of the rocket, and informative commentary from some of the best in launch coverage.

A screen capture of Spaceflight Now’s launch feed from Starlink 6-24. The rocket and the countdown clock are clearly visible.

NOTE: Because it literally takes time for a live signal to travel from the Cape to YouTube’s servers and then back down to your phone, SFN’s video feed can be delayed anywhere from six to thirty seconds when you see it. That’s not any editorial decision by them, it’s simply a matter of physics. Refer to the Space Launch Schedule countdown clock for the most accurate time to liftoff.

There are other great sources of information, but for simplicity’s sake, I will only mention the few websites above. Between them, you’ll know what you need to know when you need to know it, and that’s what counts the most. I recommend you explore both Spaceflight Now and the scheduling sites before heading to the launch site.

Setting Up For The Photograph

Once you arrive at the launch viewing site choose where you will place your camera. I recommend being close to the water’s edge if you are on the banks of the Indian or Banana River, and adding some foreground interest to give your photograph a sense of place. There are a lot of piers on the Indian River, for example. If you can’t find an object to put in the foreground, no worries, you’ll still get a great shot. One thing you’ll want to make sure of: make sure your tripod is stable and hard to bump accidentally.

IMPORTANT NOTE: be aware of wildlife in or near the water. If you see or hear an alligator, find another spot. Don’t approach it and don’t disturb it.

Find the launch pad, if you can see it. (Some great streak shots don’t show the launch pad.) This can be tricky, and if you’re not sure and someone is nearby, ask them. Worst case, use Google Maps to orient yourself so that you’re aiming in the right direction.

My setup for a launch in the summer of 2023. One camera was used for closeup still photos, one for a streak shot, and the GoPro close to the ground was used for an animated streak shot.

This is where knowing the trajectory is critical: if the launch is to the south, you’ll want the launch pad on the left side of the frame of your planned photo. The rocket will travel left to right if you’re looking to the east.

On the other hand, if the mission is towards the International Space Station, the rocket will be traveling right to left, so orient the launch pad to the right of your frame. If you’re at an equatorial launch (one to the due east from the pad) you’ll want to center the pad in your frame.

I tend to leave as much sky in the composition as I can, that keeps me from missing the top of the arc. This is a risk with longer length lenses.

The Space Launch Schedule website has a link to a flight trajectory plot on Flightclub.io, another launch info site. Here’s one for Starlink showing it will travel to the southeast. If you are facing east, put the launch pad region on the left side of your composition.

Next, shift the camera so the sky is at least 75% of your composition. If you’re close to the launch pad – again, using the example of US1 in Titusville, I recommend making it 85% sky, just to be sure. You can always zoom in and crop later if you like, but you can’t compensate for missing part of the flight path if you’re aimed too low.

Safer is better than sorry, especially if you’ve traveled a very long way to take the photograph.

This is the raw, unedited version of my Starlink 6-24 shot, taken from next to Rotary Park in Titusville. The grass and trees were well-lit by the street-lights on the highway. This was made with a 24mm lens, and you can see that I almost aimed too low to get the whole streak.
Here are the settings for the raw photo above. 405 second exposure a ISO 100 and f22. I started the exposure at t-minus two minutes. The aperture was really high because I was quite close to the launch pad and wanted to avoid a blob of light from the initial liftoff sequence.

Camera Settings

Here are the settings I’ve used successfully for a few dozen “streak shots”:

Camera Settings
Mode MANUAL
ISO 100
Aperture f/14 – f/22
Shutter Bulb
Autofocus OFF — Manually focus to infinity. To confirm focus, shine a light on an object 20–30 yards away and focus on it. Use gaffer’s tape (not duct tape) to lock the focus ring in place.

Artemis II will be one of the brightest rockets you’ll see. Consider decreasing the aperture by another stop or so (f16 or even f18).

Turn off noise reduction or any other in-camera post-processing. I have found with long exposures like a streak shot, my camera can take 4-5 minutes to complete post-processing and that in turn is a chance for a mistake. That being said, I turn it all off in the camera, and if I need to reduce noise, I’ll do it in my photo editor. Also, turn off any VR (vibration reduction) since the camera will be on a tripod.

Consult your camera manual for directions if you’re not sure how to put it in those settings. If you don’t have your camera manual handy, ask ChatGPT.

Focusing may be a bit of a challenge, but I’ve found that I can focus my lens fairly easily by first centering on a bright light off on the horizon and then focusing on it, or using the old trick of illuminating something 30-35 yards away with a flashlight and focusing on that. Either method should set your focus to infinity. Lock it down with gaffer’s tape so you don’t defocus accidentally.

Finally. I’ll carefully adjust my composition to what I am looking for, and finally lock the tripod down so it won’t move at all while the photo is being made.

When To Take The Picture

Take a test picture once you have everything set – probably 4-5 minutes of exposure, at least. This will give you the confidence that you’ve set up everything correctly, and if not, you’ll have a chance to fix it before the launch itself. Given that it’s pretty dark, I often will tilt or level the camera a little bit after my first test shot.

For the launch itself, I will often start the photo a couple of minutes before liftoff. This accomplishes a couple purposes: if anything has gone awry, I have a last chance to fix it. Secondly, and most importantly, I like my streak shots to have a bit of color in the sky. The longer the exposure time, the bluer the sky. If there are stars out, they’ll have longer streaks. If there are clouds up in the sky, they will streak a bit too.

It’s really an artist’s choice, however, if you want a darker sky, wait closer to the liftoff to start your exposure. If you want a brighter sky start earlier. Test shots are informative here, and I can’t recommend creating them enough.

Whenever you decide to start, lock the shutter of your camera open, and don’t disturb it at all. It’s time to watch a rocket launch!

The Launch Itself

Launches are brightest in the first few seconds of flight, because that’s the closest the rocket will be to you and your camera. It’s one of the reasons I recommend a really high aperture like f20 – you’ll have a much better chance for the first part of the streak not to be “blown out” with a huge blob of light. It’s not aesthetically pleasing to me, so I account for it with the narrow aperture.

The closer you are to the launch pad, the higher your aperture needs to be. If you are 10-12 miles, f14 is fine for Falcon 9.

If you are closer, you might want to be at f18 or f22. If you are farther — for example, in Port St. Lucie, f14 is likely your best bet. Use your judgment, and remember that you can fix things up in your photo editor later if it is a little too dark to suit your tastes.

IMPORTANT: If the rocket used for the mission has solid rocket boosters — Artemis II or Vulcan, for example — you may want to decrease the aperture another stop or so (f16 or even f18).

Foreground interest never hurts a composition. I took this at Kennedy Point Park and stood back 25 feet or so to include other spectators. 10mm lens (cropped) ISO 100, f14, 270 seconds

After the launch, the rocket will appear to rise vertically for at least fifteen and perhaps even thirty seconds, depending on your location and the mission profile. Then it will begin to arc over towards the horizon. At some point, perhaps 45 seconds or so, it will reach its apparent apex and then look like it is descending. Don’t worry, it isn’t dropping, you are just seeing an optical illusion because of the Earth’s curve.

If this is your first launch, you might be surprised at how long it take the sound to arrive to you. You’re close to sea level and that means it takes five seconds for sound to travel a mile. It might be 40-50 seconds before you hear any rumble.

Falcon 9, Kennedy Point Park, f16, 300 seconds.

For a SpaceX Falcon 9, the first stage of flight is roughly two and a half minutes. The plume of the rocket will start changing colors a little after two minutes has gone by, and it will be noticeably dimmer than even just a half minute before. It’s truly a beautiful site to behold.

When the rocket stages, there will be a few seconds of darkness from your point of view. Then, you should see the second stage firing up and continuing the mission. It is usually just a little pin-prick of light, but most nights it’s clearly visible.

The dock at Rotary Riverfront Park in Titusville faces directly toward SLC-40. ISO 100, f20, 451 seconds, 10mm lens

This is another point where artist’s choice comes into play: you can stop the exposure pretty any time you like, or you can let it continue until you can’t see anything. Some nights, I’ve been able to follow the rocket’s flame plume almost to orbit – about eight minutes. If its hazy, like most summer nights, the light will disappear closer to staging. Every launch is different.

Unlock the shutter lock on your release cable, and let the camera write the file to the storage card and have a look – you’ll be able to immediately get an idea of your results!

Post-Processing

I’m not going to go too deep into this, other than to say it’s a near certainty that you will want to perfect your image in your favorite image editing software.

Me, I usually decrease the highlights a bit, perhaps increase or decrease the contrast, and just generally tweak the appearance of the final photo. Unless I’ve missed the mark wildly exposure-wise (like the time I forgot to turn off Auto-ISO, oops!) the shot will pretty much speak for itself and won’t need too much finagling to get it where I want it to be.

The most important thing in post-processing is getting your settings, focus and composition right in the camera.

The Bottom Line

It’s not hard to take a streak photo, but it does require you to pay attention in your setup. Take care of that, use a wide angle lens that can capture the whole arc and you should be golden. Have fun!

Atlas V, Lucy, 2021
Photo: Charles Boyer
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SpaceX USSF-36 OTV-8
SpaceX USSF-36 OTV-8
File photo of a Falcon 9 night launch from SLC-40 in Cape Canaveral. Photo: Charles Boyer

It’s been a hot minute since the last Falcon 9 launch here on the Eastern Range, or at least it feels that way. Last year saw a Falcon 9 launch from Florida roughly every 3.4 days, and tonight marks the 9th day since the last SpaceX rocket roared off of SLC-40.

That dry spell should end tonight with the launch of the GPS III SV09 mission from Cape Canaveral. The launch window opens at 11:38PM ET and lasts for fifteen minutes.

Falcon 9 booster B1096 will power the mission off of the launch pad, and it is planned to complete its fifth mission when it touches down off the coast of the Carolinas aboard ‘A Shortfall Of Gravitas.’ B1096 previously launched KF-01, IMAP, NROL-77, and one Starlink mission.

At A Glance

Launch Preview — At a Glance
As of: January 27, 2026 (America/New_York)
Mission Falcon 9 | GPS III-9 “Ellison Onizuka”
Status Go for Launch
Current T-0 confirmed by official or reliable sources.
Rocket Falcon 9 Block 5 (B1096 — 5th flight)
Organization SpaceX (for U.S. Space Force)
Location Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA
Pad Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40)
Window Opens: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 — 11:38 PM ET
Closes: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 — 11:53 PM ET
(15-minute window)
Countdown
Loading countdown…
Target: 11:38 PM ET (Window Open)
Destination Medium Earth Orbit (~20,200 km altitude)
Recovery First stage landing on drone ship A Shortfall of Gravitas (Atlantic Ocean)
Touchdown approximately 8.5 minutes after liftoff
Official Stream SpaceX Mission Webcast
Spaceflight Now Spaceflight Now Live Coverage
Coverage begins approximately 60 minutes before liftoff
Mission Notes GPS III Space Vehicle 09 is the ninth of ten GPS III satellites, delivering modernized positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) capabilities for the U.S. Space Force. GPS III provides up to 3× better accuracy and 8× improved anti-jamming performance, featuring encrypted M-code for military users and the interoperable L1C civil signal. The satellite is named for Col. Ellison Onizuka, a NASA astronaut lost in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster on January 28, 1986. Satellite deployment occurs approximately 90 minutes after liftoff.
Tip: Times are shown in Eastern Time (America/New_York). Launch schedules can change quickly due to weather and range operations. If your platform strips scripts, the countdown may not display.

Trajectory

Northeast.

Weather

The 45th Weather Squadron of the US Space Force’s Launch Delta 45 issued their L-1 Launch Mission Execution Forecast yesterday, and it could not be much better, cool temperatures notwithstanding: 95+% Go throughout the launch window:

Payload

Artist’s rendering of a GPS Block III satellite. Credit: US Air Force

GPS III Space Vehicle 09 is the ninth of ten upgraded navigation satellites built by Lockheed Martin for the U.S. Space Force. It offers three times better accuracy and eight times stronger anti-jamming capability compared to older GPS satellites. Military users get the encrypted M-code signal for secure operations, while civilians benefit from the L1C signal that works alongside Europe’s Galileo system.

The satellite is named “Ellison Onizuka” after the Air Force colonel and NASA astronaut lost in the Challenger disaster on January 28, 1986—almost exactly 40 years ago. After reaching medium Earth orbit about 90 minutes after liftoff, SV09 will undergo testing before joining the operational GPS constellation.

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Artemis I liftoff. Photo: NASA

The Artemis II mission will mark humanity’s return to lunar exploration with a crewed spacecraft for the first time since Apollo 17 in December 1972. NASA’s Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft will carry astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen on an approximately 10-day journey around the Moon and back to Earth.

The launch window opens on February 6, 2026, with additional opportunities on February 7th, 8th, 10th, and 11th. Launch will occur from Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center—the same historic pad complex that sent Apollo astronauts to the Moon aboard Apollo 10. After that, LC-39B was reconfigured for the Space Shuttle program, serving as the launch site for 53 missions.

Last update: February 2, 2026

See also:
Traveler’s Guide To The Artemis II Launch
Artemis II Viewing Map (Desktop Version)
How To Take A Launch Streak Shot

Possible Launch Dates:

The rocket is at the pad, and the launch windows are as follows:

To date (January 20th) no official launch date or time has been released by NASA. Pad integration is continuing, followed by a Wet Dress Rehearsal (currently no later than February 2) and, finally, a Flight Readiness Review to evaluate the status of all aspects of the mission. If successful, permission to proceed will be granted, and a launch date and time will be officially set.

Keep that word in mind — official — because it trumps all other information.

So, while you still have some time, here’s some information about coming to town and viewing the launch:

Understanding the Launch Location

Most visitors to the Space Coast do not realize that there are actually two space launch centers in Florida: Kennedy Space Center (KSC), operated by NASA, and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS), a US Space Force base. They adjoin one another and form a contiguous area, but each has its own management and security.

Launch Complex 39B is located at Kennedy Space Center, on the northern end of the Cape. This is important for selecting your viewing location—LC-39B is significantly farther north than SpaceX’s SLC-40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, which means the optimal viewing spots are different.

One of the most accurate maps there is of Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
via: NASA

For Artemis II, the Titusville area offers some of the best public viewing, as it sits almost directly across the Indian River from LC-39B. Port Canaveral and Cocoa Beach, while still offering views, are considerably farther away.

Proximity to the launch pad is important for seeing ignition and liftoff, but it matters less and less as the rocket climbs into the sky. That’s because it will be rising rapidly, affording everyone an opportunity to see it well. That being said, if you can’t get viewing tickets at the Saturn V Center, don’t fret too much — you’re going to get a great look anywhere in the Space Coast region so long as the skies are clear at launch time.

Best Public Viewing Spots for Artemis II

In a nutshell, here are some good spots to consider:

Artemis II Viewing Locations
📍 Viewing Locations
Ticketed Free Paid

Best Public Viewing Spots for Artemis II

Area Spot Distance Notes
KSC (Ticketed) Banana Creek / Apollo-Saturn V Center ~3.9 mi 💵 Premier viewing for LC-39 launches. Ticketed via KSCVC. Info
Titusville Max Brewer Bridge & Parrish Park ~11.1 mi Elevated bridge vantage. Excellent for LC-39 launches. Fills very quickly.
Titusville Space View Park ~11.6 mi Iconic riverfront viewing. Live audio feeds. Very popular—arrive early.
Titusville Rotary Riverfront Park ~11.8 mi Open river views; good parking. Less crowded alternative.
Titusville Kennedy Point Park ~12.0 mi Long riverfront; good tripod space. Near marina.
Titusville Space Bar (Rooftop) ~11.5 mi Rooftop view with food/drinks. Check hours.
Port Canaveral SR-528 Bennett Causeway pull-offs ~14.5 mi Open causeway views. Farther but still viable.
Port Canaveral Jetty Park ~14.6 mi 💵 Beach and pier access. Good for families. Fees
Cape Canaveral Cherie Down Park ~15.2 mi ⚠️ Beach access. Dunes may block first seconds.
Cocoa Beach Alan Shepard Park ~17.4 mi 💵 Beachfront. Named for America’s first astronaut.
Cocoa Beach Cocoa Beach Pier ~16.8 mi 💵 Horizon view over ocean. Tourist crowds.

⚠️ Potential obstruction    💵 Fee, paid parking, or ticket required

Note: Distances are approximate straight-line measures to LC-39B. Access, hours, fees, and closures may change—verify before launch day.

Looking Closer at the Options

Banana Creek Viewing Area (Apollo-Saturn V Center) – ~3.75 miles

UPDATE: Tickets went on sale for KSCVC options on January 23, and sold out in 30 minutes. Check their site, but it may be too late for this option.

This is the viewing location for Artemis II. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers ticketed viewing at the Apollo-Saturn V Center, which sits almost directly across the Banana Creek from LC-39B. This is as close as the general public can get to a launch from LC-39B.

The experience includes bleacher seating, live commentary from NASA, and the unparalleled backdrop of the actual Saturn V rocket displayed inside the center. For a once-in-a-generation mission like Artemis II, this is worth the investment. If you have kids or grandkids who want to go, there are few events that are more exciting than this.

Pricing: Expect premium pricing for Artemis II—this is a historic mission. Tickets are in addition to standard KSCVC admission and parking. Prices for other premium launches have been as high as $250 per person, and it is reasonable to expect KSCVC to have similar price tags on Artemis II ducats.

Important: Read the KSCVC Scrub Policy carefully before purchasing. If the launch scrubs after you’ve used transportation to the viewing site, your ticket may be considered “used.” Contact the Visitor Complex directly with questions, they are the only ones that can give official information about their policies.

Max Brewer Bridge & Parrish Park (Titusville) – ~10.75 miles

For free public viewing, the Max Brewer Bridge area is arguably the best spot for an LC-39B launch. The elevated bridge provides clear sightlines across the Indian River directly toward the launch pad. Parrish Park at the base of the bridge offers parking and waterfront access.

Arrive extremely early. For a mission of this magnitude, expect the bridge and surrounding areas to fill up many hours—potentially the night before for a daytime launch. The February launch windows are evening opportunities and that may attract even larger crowds. Parking will be in high demand, and the early birds get the best spots.

Stay tuned for news about closures and plans that the city may have for Max Brewer.

Space View Park (Titusville) – ~11.1 miles

Space View Park is one of the most famous public viewing locations on the Space Coast, featuring the Space Walk of Fame and often hosting live NASA audio feeds during launches.

The park sits on the Indian River, with direct views of Kennedy Space Center. It’s across the Max Brewer Bridge from the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge entrance to Kennedy Space Center and is one of the closest off-base sites you can view the launch from.

For Artemis II, expect this park to be packed. Arrive as early as possible. The park has restrooms and is walking distance from downtown Titusville restaurants and shops.

Rotary Riverfront Park (Titusville) – ~11.5 miles

A popular local alternative to the more crowded Space View Park, Rotary Riverfront Park offers similar views with typically easier parking. It’s a good choice for families or those who want a slightly less hectic experience, but it too will be crowded for Artemis II.

Kennedy Point Park (Titusville) – ~ 11.75 miles

Located next to a marina, Kennedy Point Park offers a long stretch of riverfront with ample space for tripods and photography equipment. It’s less well-known than Space View Park, making it a good option for those seeking a bit more elbow room.

William J. Manzo Memorial Park – ~12 miles

A hidden gem, this small riverfront park offers unexpectedly great views across the Indian River. Small is the operative word, so it will be a good idea to settle in early here if that’s your plan.

Space Bar (Titusville) – ~12.1 miles

If you want to combine launch viewing with food and drinks, Space Bar’s rooftop offers excellent views toward LC-39B. Check their website for more information as the launch approaches , and expect it to be crowded for Artemis II.

Reservations, if available, would be very wise.

KARS Park – ~14.5 miles

UPDATE: KARS Park announced on February 2nd that they will not be open to the general public for launch viewing of Artemis II.

KARS Park is located on Kennedy Space Center property and offers good views across the water toward LC-39B, even if you are looking along the shoreline a long way. KARS is a great place to see the rocket after it lifts off as it is on the banks of the Banana River with a clear view over Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Entry requires a fee, and you must verify the park’s status before launch day—access to KSC property can be restricted for major launches. Unauthorized entry is trespassing on federal property.

KARS will be crowded, but it will be out ahead of the crowd after the launch.

Check KARS Park on Facebook for the latest access information.

Port Canaveral Area – ~14-16 miles

The Port Canaveral viewing spots—including SR-528 pull-offs and Jetty Park—are farther from LC-39B than from the Cape Canaveral launch pads. You’ll still see the launch clearly, but the experience will be much less dramatic than viewing from Titusville.

Jetty Park remains a good family-friendly option with beach access, a pier, and amenities. Just be aware that cruise ships or port infrastructure can occasionally obstruct views. That’s not as likely for a night launch in February as it might be for day launches in later windows.

Cocoa Beach – ~20+ miles

Alan Shepard Park and Cocoa Beach Pier offer views of the launch, but at 20 miles distance, the rocket will appear smaller. These locations are better suited for casual viewing than for diehard space fans who want to be in the middle of the action.

Tips for Artemis II Viewing

Arrive early—very early. This is the first crewed Moon mission in over 50 years. Public interest will be enormous. For popular locations like Space View Park and Max Brewer Bridge, consider arriving the night before for a morning launch, or at least 4-6 hours early.

Check the launch time. The February 2026 window includes several potential dates. NASA will confirm the actual launch date after the wet dress rehearsal (scheduled for no later than February 2). Monitor NASA’s Artemis blog for updates.

Sound travels slowly, about 5 miles per second. At 7 miles, expect the sound to reach you about 35 seconds after liftoff. At 15 umiles, it’s over a minute. Be patient—the rumble is worth the wait.

Have a well-charged smartphone to keep up with the status of the launch. Social media sites from official sources can be invaluable, as are livestreams on Youtube. NASA, Spaceflight Now and NASA Spaceflight are three of the best. NASA’s stream is, of course, the official one.

Bring essentials: Chairs, sunscreen (even in February), water, snacks, and binoculars. A camera with a telephoto lens will help capture the rocket as it climbs*. You won’t need the chairs if you have tickets to view at Kennedy Space Center, nor will you need water and snacks because they will be nearby.

SLS is loud. The Space Launch System generates 8.8 million pounds of thrust at liftoff—more than the venerable Saturn V. Even from Titusville, you’re going to feel its low frequency rumbles deep in your chest. Some say it is ground-shaking, but that’s apocryphal except for viewers at the Saturn V Center.

Car Alarms Get Set Off By Launches. Don’t be surprised if it’s yours.

Plan for a lot of traffic leaving: build in time to get out of the viewing areas after the launch. Traffic will be bad everywhere. It’s simply a part of the viewing experience.

* I recommend NOT trying to photograph the launch, as watching it is a visceral experience not to be missed. Buy one of the prints that will be for sale later.

What You’ll Witness

Artemis II will send four astronauts farther from Earth than any humans have ever traveled. Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, and Mission Specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen will loop around the Moon before returning to Earth at approximately 25,000 mph—the fastest any humans have ever reentered Earth’s atmosphere.

Victor Glover will become the first person of color to travel to the Moon. Christina Koch will become the first woman. Jeremy Hansen will become the first non-American. All of them might end up as the farthest-traveling crew to date.

Artemis II crew. Photo: NASA

Standing on the shores of the Indian River or the sands of Cocoa Beach, you’ll watch the 322-foot-tall rocket rise on twin pillars of flame from the launch pad. LC-39B has been used in the past for Saturn V Apollo missions as well as Space Shuttle missions.

The ground won’t shake from 7 miles away—that’s a myth—but the deep rumble of those solid rocket boosters rolling across the water is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Artemis II on January 17, 2026 as it exits the VAB at KSC. Photo: Charles Boyer
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After more than 50 years since the last Apollo mission, NASA is preparing to send astronauts back to the Moon. Artemis II, targeted for launch no earlier than February 6, 2026, will mark humanity’s first crewed journey to lunar orbit since 1972. The 10-day mission will carry four astronauts around the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft, launched by NASA’s powerful Space Launch System (SLS) rocket from Pad LC-39B from Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The crew includes NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman (commander), Victor Glover (pilot), and Christina Koch (mission specialist), along with Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen. This mission represents several historic firsts: Glover will become the first person of color to travel to deep space, Koch will be the first woman to venture beyond low Earth orbit, and Hansen will be the first non-American to journey to the Moon. There is also the possibility that the Artemis II crew will set a new record for the furthest humans away from Earth, but that is dependent on several different mission factors and has yet to be determined.

Getting Here

The Space Coast, and Kennedy Space Center is roughly fifty miles east of Orlando, Florida.

Flight options include Orlando, Melbourne, Florida and Sanford, Florida. Most people use Orlando.

Driving is straightforward: from the north or south of KSC, I-95 is the best way to get here. From Orlando and points west, FL-528, sometimes called “The Beachline” is the fastest route.

Launch Viewing at Kennedy Space Center

The SLS rocket completed its rollout to Launch Pad 39B on January 17, 2026. NASA is targeting a launch window that opens February 6, 2026, with backup opportunities on February 7, 8, 10, and 11. Additional launch windows are available in March (6, 7, 8, 9, and 11) and April (1, 3, 4, 5, and 6) if needed.

Important: Standard daily admission tickets and annual passes will NOT be valid for Artemis II launch viewing. Special launch viewing packages are required and typically include access for two launch attempt dates, a 30-day return visit to the Visitor Complex, and commemorative items.

For the latest information on launch viewing ticket availability, visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex website and sign up for email alerts. Viewing locations include the Atlantis North Lawn and the Apollo/Saturn V Center at Banana Creek, which offers views across the water toward Launch Pad 39B.

Launch Viewing Outside Kennedy Space Center

This is an article unto itself: click here.

Where to Stay

The Space Coast offers accommodations ranging from beachfront resorts to budget-friendly options near I-95. Book early for launch events, as hotels fill quickly.

Titusville

Titusville is the closest community to Kennedy Space Center and offers excellent views of launches from along the Indian River. The city is home to Space View Park, a popular free launch viewing location.

Courtyard by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Center – Features The Space Bar, a rooftop bar with spectacular views of the Kennedy Space Center launch pads. Space-themed rooms, resort-style pool, and on-site dining.

Hyatt Place Titusville / Kennedy Space Center – The closest hotel to the space center with spacious family-friendly rooms, some featuring launch views. Near the American Space Museum and Walk of Fame.

Hampton Inn Titusville/I-95 Kennedy Space Center – Located directly off I-95, about 12 miles from KSC. Free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and free WiFi. Pet-friendly.

Holiday Inn Titusville – Kennedy Space Center – Features The Local Kitchen & Tap restaurant, outdoor pool, and 24-hour fitness center. Pet-friendly with on-site meeting facilities.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Titusville Kennedy Space Center – Free breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center. Conveniently located near Lockheed, NASA, and Boeing facilities.

Budget options include the Comfort Suites Titusville, Quality Inn Kennedy Space Center, and Days Inn by Wyndham Titusville Kennedy Space Center, all offering free breakfast and easy I-95 access. Some are better than others, and in all cases, paying careful attention to reviews is a wise idea.

Port St. John

Port St. John is a residential community located just south of Titusville, offering a quieter alternative with easy access to Kennedy Space Center. While the community has limited hotel options within its borders, nearby hotels in Titusville (about 3 miles north) and Cocoa (about 5 miles south) provide convenient accommodations.

The Courtyard by Marriott Titusville and Fairfield Inn & Suites Titusville are among the closest major hotels to Port St. John.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is Florida’s quintessential surf town, offering oceanfront accommodations, the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier, and a vibrant dining and entertainment scene. It’s approximately 20 minutes from Kennedy Space Center.

Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront – Steps from the beach and minutes from Port Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center. Beautiful ocean views from most rooms, on-site dining, and pool.

Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort – Luxurious two-bedroom suites with direct beach access. Features the Wakulla Water Play Experience with lazy river, tiki bar, and complimentary shuttle to Cocoa Beach Pier. Pet-friendly.

The Inn at Cocoa Beach – Consistently rated #1 on TripAdvisor for Cocoa Beach. This 50-room oceanfront boutique hotel offers complimentary breakfast, beach chairs and umbrellas, and an honor bar. Adults-only atmosphere.

Beachside Hotel & Suites Cocoa Beach – Port Canaveral – Features a lazy river pool, Duck Dive poolside bar, and retro Florida vibe. Free bike and beach rentals. Popular for pre-cruise stays with Park N Cruise packages available. Pet-friendly.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Cocoa Beach Oceanfront – Beachfront location with balconies offering ocean views. Free hot breakfast and walking distance to Cocoa Beach Pier.

Additional options include Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach, Courtyard by Marriott Cocoa Beach Cape Canaveral, and Four Points by Sheraton Cocoa Beach.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral sits adjacent to Port Canaveral and offers convenient access to both cruise terminals and Kennedy Space Center. Many hotels here cater to cruise passengers and space enthusiasts alike.

Hyatt Place Cape Canaveral – Features rooftop Altitude360 bar with 360-degree views perfect for watching rocket launches. Modern rooms, outdoor pool, and The Placery restaurant. Pet-friendly with treats at check-in.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral-Cocoa Beach – All-suite hotel with fully equipped kitchens, free hot breakfast, and complimentary Wednesday evening social. One mile from cruise ports and close to Kennedy Space Center. Features tiki bar and Peloton bikes.

SpringHill Suites Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach – All-suite hotel with separate sleep, work, and relaxation areas. Complimentary breakfast, on-site restaurant, pool, and fire pit. Minutes from Port Canaveral.

Holiday Inn Express Cape Canaveral – Located near Terminal 3 at Port Canaveral with splash zone pool and cabanas. Free hot breakfast. Just 15 miles from Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Additional options include Hilton Garden Inn Cape Canaveral, Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Port Canaveral.

Merritt Island

Merritt Island sits between the mainland and the barrier islands, offering Indian River views and proximity to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Island Hotel of the Space Coast – A local option on Merritt Island offering convenient access to Kennedy Space Center.

Vacation rentals – Many visitors opt for vacation rental homes on Merritt Island, which can offer river access and private launch viewing from docks and yards.

South Cocoa Beach

The southern end of Cocoa Beach provides a quieter beach atmosphere while still offering easy access to Kennedy Space Center and Port Canaveral.

South Beach Inn – A charming beachfront option with a relaxed atmosphere. Pet-friendly with oceanfront rooms available.

Beachside Hotel & Suites – Located close to Patrick Space Force Base, offering a lazy river pool and convenient beach access. Great for families.

Satellite Beach

Just on the other side of Patrick Space Force Base, Satellite Beach is a quiet community with some decent restaurants and beaches. The area is not a resort area like Cocoa Beach, but it does have one good option for travelers: Paradise Beach Club Rentals.

Indialantic

Located south of Melbourne Beach, Indialantic offers a quieter beach experience. It’s farther from Kennedy Space Center (about 45 minutes) but provides a more relaxed atmosphere.

Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront – A full-service oceanfront resort with multiple restaurants, pools, and spa services. Excellent for those who want to combine launch viewing with a beach resort experience.

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront – All-suite oceanfront property with full kitchens and private balconies.

Tuckaway Shores Resort – Boutique beachfront resort with a laid-back vibe and direct beach access.

Windemere Inn by the Sea – A bed-and-breakfast style inn right on the beach, offering a more intimate experience.

Where to Eat

The Space Coast offers diverse dining options, from waterfront seafood to Southern soul food. Here are some local favorites across the region, but don’t be afraid to explore the many other options — there are just too many good restaurants to name in a single article.

That said, in no particular order of preference:

Titusville

Playalinda Brewing Company – Brix Project (5220 S Washington Ave) – A 16,000-square-foot craft brewery and restaurant in a renovated lumberyard with 20 rotating taps, wood-fired grill, and beer garden. Creative elevated pub fare from Executive Chef Justin Medina pairs perfectly with award-winning craft beers. Outdoor patio is pet-friendly. Weekend brunch, Tuesday trivia, and live music events.

Loyd Have Mercy (3434 S Washington Ave) – Family-owned soul food restaurant serving homestyle Southern fare since 2013. Known for fried chicken with mac & cheese, BBQ meatloaf, collard greens, and sweet potato cake. Owner Loyd creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere with occasional live jazz. Lunch and dinner with catering available. Closed Mondays.

New York New York (5401 Riveredge Dr) – Italian-American dining with views across the Indian River toward Kennedy Space Center. A local favorite for watching launches from the restaurant. Don’t go here expecting fancy — it’s not, and that’s the way the locals like it. Don’t be put off by the weathered facade either – the food is great, the staff helpful and locals are friendly.

El Leoncito (4280 S Washington Ave) – Family-owned Mexican and Cuban restaurant serving the community for over 18 years. Features a patio overlooking the Indian River with views toward the space center. Jeff Bezos has eaten here, as have more astronauts than you can count. Take some time to look at the photos on the wall, you will be surprised at the sheer number of VIPs and celebrities who’ve eaten here.

Port Canaveral

Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill (610 Glen Cheek Dr) – Waterfront dining with views of cruise ships and the Canaveral Barge Canal. Known for fresh seafood, Caribbean-influenced dishes, and a laid-back tiki bar atmosphere. Their outdoor deck offers excellent views for rocket launches. Live music most evenings.

Gator’s Dockside (683 Dave Nisbet Dr) Waterfront dining across the port from SpaceX’s wharf where it unloads Falcon 9 boosters and fairings. The food is good, staff is friendly and this place is a go-to for a lot of locals.

Cocoa Beach

Coconuts on the Beach (2 Minutemen Cswy) – Iconic oceanfront bar and restaurant right on the sand in downtown Cocoa Beach. Fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and live music with stunning Atlantic views. Try the coconut crusted shrimp or fresh catch of the day. Tiki huts, full bar, and legendary sunset vibes make this a must-visit for any Space Coast trip. First come, first served – no reservations.

The Tiny Turtle (249 Minutemen Cswy) – Award-winning Caribbean fusion restaurant in the heart of downtown Cocoa Beach. Chef Moises Correa brings Puerto Rican heritage to creative dishes like island pork tacos, sofrito bowls, and the famous Tripleta sandwich. Recognized as a Surfrider Ocean Friendly Restaurant for sustainability efforts. Full bar with craft cocktails, outdoor tiki seating, and pet-friendly patio. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

4th Street Fillin Station (382 N Orlando Ave) – A unique gastropub housed in a converted 1950s gas station. Known for creative craft beers, elevated bar food, and homemade ice cream. The retro atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a local favorite.

Planning Tips

Book accommodations early as possible. Hotels fill up quickly for major launches, especially historic missions like Artemis II. Consider booking refundable rates in case of launch delays.

Don’t book until a launch date is announced. Launch dates and times are highly variable and they can and will change often. Rely on official sources for the best information. If you can book and cancel without penalty, things are different, of course, but there have been more than a few folks who booked a vacation around a launch only to learn that the launch date has been changed due to one reason or another.

Artemis II launch windows
Possible Artemis II launch dates

Sign up for alerts. Register at kennedyspacecenter.com to receive email notifications about launch-viewing ticket availability.

Have backup plans. Launches can be delayed due to weather or technical issues. Build flexibility into your travel dates if possible. Refer to the launch window chart below for potential launch dates.

Explore the area. Even if you’re primarily here for the launch, take time to visit the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, the Sands Space History Center, the American Space Museum, and the beautiful beaches of the Space Coast.

Cocoa Village is the historic downtown district of Cocoa, Florida, located along the Indian River. It features unique shopping, restaurants and even a pirate museum that make a visit well worth the time.

There may be other launches: The Eastern Range is a very busy place, with over 100 launches per year. Most of those are SpaceX flights, and they make for remarkable viewing, especially if you’ve never seen a launch. Refer to Upcoming Florida Launches for more information.

Arrive early on launch day. Traffic will be heavy, and you’ll want to secure your viewing spot well in advance of the scheduled launch time. “Well in advance” means hours, not minutes, so be sure to have what you need to get you through the wait: a cellphone for keeping up with launch news, bug spray, chairs, refreshments and the like.

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File photo of a typical Falcon 9 Starlink launch from SLC-40. Photo: Charleds Boyer
File photo of a typical Falcon 9 Starlink launch from SLC-40. Photo: Charleds Boyer
File photo of a typical Falcon 9 Starlink launch from SLC-40. Photo: Charles Boyer

SpaceX is planning to launch a Falcon 9 carrying 28 Starlink Mini V2 satellites to orbit tomorrow morning fron Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The launch window opens at 10:02 AM ET and closes four hours later at 2:02 PM the same day.

This will 24th flight for B1077, the fourth most flown active booster in SpaceX’s Falcon fleet:

Booster Flights Last Launch Last Mission
B1067 31 flights October 19, 2025 Starlink Group 10-18
B1063 28 flights September 29, 2025 Starlink Group 11-20
B1069 27 flights December 21, 2024 Starlink Group 7-17
B1077 23 flights July 8, 2025 Starlink Group 10-04
B1078 23 flights September 12, 2024 Starlink Group 7-12

As of 12:18 PM Saturday October 25, 2025. Booster flight histories and mission names are based on the latest verified data and are subject to change as new launches occur. Consult SpaceX.com or RocketLaunch.Live for the most current information.

Weather looks…okay…but the odds are in SpaceX’s favor throughout the launch window. For spectators, temperatures around 80ºF with a 40-50% chance of precipitation and winds around 15 MPH are expected. That’s a decent day here down at the coast and it should be a pleasant day.

At A Glance

Details
Mission Falcon 9 Block 5 | Starlink Group 10-21 — Go for Launch!
Organization SpaceX
Customer / Payload Provider SpaceX — Starlink Division
Location Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA
Rocket Falcon 9
Pad Space Launch Complex 40
Status Go for Launch
Status Info Current T-0 confirmed by official or reliable sources.
Window Opens Sunday, 10/26/2025 10:05 AM
Window Closes Sunday, 10/26/2025 2:05 PM
Destination Low Earth Orbit
Mission Description A batch of 28 satellites for the Starlink mega-constellation — SpaceX’s project for a space-based Internet communication system.
Broadcast Start Time Coverage typically begins ~15 minutes before launch.
SpaceX Streaming Coverage Watch Live on SpaceX.com
Spaceflight Now YouTube Coverage Watch on YouTube – Spaceflight Now Live Stream

As of 12:18 PM Saturday October 25, 2025. Launch times are subject to change or cancellation at any time. Consult SpaceX.com for more information.

Trajectory

Northeast.

Weather

The 45th Weather Squadron of Space Launch Delta 45 has released its Launch Mission Execution Forecast for the flight and says the weather criteria should be 85% GO at the start of the launch window, with chances dropping to 70% GO by the time the launch window closes.

Launch Viewing: In Person

Best Public Viewing Spots for SpaceX Launches from SLC-40 (Cape Canaveral)
Area Spot Distance to SLC-40 Notes
KSC (Ticketed) LC-39 Observation Gantry ~3.4 mi Ticketed (KSCVC bus). Closest public option when offered; limited inventory. KSCVC viewing options.
KSC (Ticketed) Banana Creek / Apollo–Saturn V Center ~6.3 mi Ticketed (KSCVC bus). Seating, restrooms, big screens. KSCVC viewing options.
Canaveral Nat’l Seashore Playalinda Beach (Lots 1–2) ~6–7 mi Entrance fee (NPS). See fees & passes. Hours/road access vary; limited amenities.
Port Canaveral SR-528 Bennett Causeway pull-offs ~11–12 mi Free roadside shoulder; arrive early; bring chairs.
Port Canaveral SR-401 / Port waterfront ~11–13 mi Free public areas; sightlines toward pads; occasional security closures. Port launch viewing info.
Port Canaveral Jetty Park (pier & beach) ~12–13 mi Park fee; restrooms & concessions; popular & crowded. Jetty Park fees/passes.
Cape Canaveral (city) Cherie Down Park ~13–14 mi Free public beach access; small parking lot.
Cocoa Beach Cocoa Beach Pier ~17–20 mi Public beach; shops & restrooms; tourist crowds. Parking fees (city).
Cocoa Beach Alan Shepard Park ~18–19 mi Paid parking; restrooms; easy beach access. Parking fees (city).
Cocoa Beach Lori Wilson Park ~19–20 mi Free parking; restrooms & boardwalks; large lot.
Titusville / US-1 Max Brewer Bridge & Parrish Park ~12–14 mi Free public area; elevated views; fills quickly.
Titusville / US-1 Space View Park ~13–15 mi Free public park; historical displays; occasional audio feeds.
Titusville / US-1 Rotary Riverfront Park ~13–15 mi Free public park; open river views; moderate parking.
Titusville / US-1 Kennedy Point Park ~13–15 mi Free public park; long riverfront; good tripod space.
Titusville / US-1 Space Bar (Rooftop) ~12–14 mi Rooftop bar at Courtyard by Marriott with launch views; seating fills quickly. Hours vary—see official hours.
Note: Distances are approximate straight-line measures. Access, hours, fees, security zones, and closures change by mission—verify on launch day.

The best options are available for spectators: Jetty Park, the Banana River Bridge on FL 528 W or the southern Titusville parks on Washington Avenue / US-1.

The Space Bar will be open through the launch window. Restaurants in Port Canaveral, specifically Gators Dockside, Fishlips and Grills Seafood should have good views after the rocket clears obstructions.

Remember that there is a delay between a launch stream and the actual countdown clock. That is simply because of physics: it takes time for the signal to travel from the launch site, through the Internet, and back down to your phone, resulting in a five to fifteen-second delay.

For a deeper dive for folks from out of town interested in watching the launch in person, read my guide here: Best Viewing Spots for Launches from SpaceX Launches From SLC-40 At Cape Canaveral.

Launch Viewing: Online

SpaceX will have a livestream of the launch on their website: Starlink 10-21. This will also be available on the X platform. Coverage starts about five minutes before liftoff.

Spaceflight Now will have coverage of the launch starting about one hour before liftoff on Youtube: link

For official updates regarding launch times, SpaceX.com is the best source of information. Starlink launch times change from time to time, and the company generally updates their website within minutes of the decision to change the launch time. This is very handy if none of the streaming options on YouTube have started their broadcasts.

Next Space Flight an app for iOS and Android phones, has a real-time countdown clock that is accurate to a second, give or take. The app is free. Search the App Store or Google Play. They are also on the web: nextspaceflight.com.


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KSCVC rendering of the newly updated Gantry at LC-39A

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has expanded its popular bus tour to include The Gantry at Launch Complex 39—a multi-level attraction nestled inside KSC that was updated and upgraded over the past several months.

Perched just 1.5 miles from LC-39A and 2.25 miles from LC-39B—the primary pads for NASA’s Artemis lunar missions—The Gantry offers a front-row seat to the agency’s current and future launch operations. Guests will find four stories of interactive exhibits, an Earth Information Center that explores how space science benefits life on our planet, and carefully preserved artifacts from NASA’s storied past.

No word has been given about launch viewing at the site. LC-39A and LC-39B are too close, of course, as there is at least a 3.5 mile exclusion area surrounding each pad and The Gantry will be too close for viewers. In the past, The Gantry has hosted spectators for launches from ULA’s pad at LC-41 and SpaceX’s pad at SLC-40 on Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and given them a point blank (relatively speaking) view of the launch equal to what the working press sees.

An Atlas V launch as seen from The Gantry
Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

Static Fire Simulator

The RS-25 on display at The Gantry in 2010. Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

For years, The Gantry had a real flight-worthy Aerojet-Rocketdyne RS-25 engine on display — one where users could get a close view of the engines that powered the launches of space shuttle orbiters and SLS rockets. When the Artemis program got started in earnest, that display was removed, leaving a huge hole in each level of The Gantry. That has been replaced by a new Static Fire simulator.

The new simulator, unique to The Gantry, recreates the moment a rocket engine fires for a ground test. Under the guidance of a NASA engineer and an on-site AI assistant named Sōl, visitors will witness an amplified demonstration: a 30-minute countdown culminates in a dramatic eruption of noise, light and cooling fog.

Education Is A Prominent Display At The Gantry

The Gantry’s designers also emphasize education. From its vantage point, guests can gaze across the wildlife refuge’s swamps and scrublands to active launch pads at both Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Interactive displays illustrate how each mission contributes to our understanding of Earth’s climate, ecosystems and natural resources.

For more information, contact the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Center.

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Falcon 9 on the launch mount at SLC-40 this afternoon in Cape Canaveral
Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

SpaceX plans to launch the Galileo L13 mission from Space Launch Complex 40 this evening at 6:50 PM EDT. The launch is on behalf of the European Commission. The payload was originally planned for launch on Soyuz-ST and then Ariane 6, but both were unavailable — the Soyuz option is kaput because of sanctions due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and Ariane 6 has launched only once, on July 9, 2024.

Should weather or technical reasons delay this evening’s launch, SpaceX has a backup launch window tomorrow, September 18, at 06:46 PM EDT

Booster B1067 will be making its twenty-second flight tonight. According to SpaceX, B1067 has “previously launched CRS-22, Crew-3, Turksat 5B, Crew-4, CRS-25, Eutelsat HOTBIRD 13G, O3B mPOWER, PSN SATRIA, Telkomsat Marah Putih 2, and 12 Starlink missions.” Following ascent and stage separation, B1067 will touch down offshore on ASDS ‘Just Read The Instructions’ which is stationed on the Atlantic Ocean.

At A Glance:

  • Date: NET September 17, 2024
  • Organization: SpaceX / European Commission
  • Mission: Galileo L13 (FOC FM26 & FM32)
  • Rocket: Falcon 9
  • Launch Site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
  • Launch Window: 06:50 PM – 07:59 PM EDT
  • Payload: Two Galileo navigation satellites

Weather

As we reach the end of wet season here in Florida, rains are a persistent threat and today is no different. The 45th Weather Squadron is giving a 40% of acceptable conditions during the launch window. They list lightning activity (Surface Electric Fields and Anvil Clouds) as well as Cumulus clouds in the ascent corridor as local concerns, and there are also moderate concerns in the booster landing area — likely lumpy seas and/or storm activity there as well.

Via the 45th Weather Squadron / Retrieved 1PM 17 September 2024

Trajectory

Northeastwards, at around 56 degrees.

Online Viewing

SpaceCoastLaunchCalendar.com will have a livestream of the launch if you’re not able to watch the launch in person: Livestream

SpaceX will have a livestream of the launch on their website: Galileo L13. This will also be available on the X platform. Coverage starts about fifteen minutes before liftoff.

Spaceflight Now will have coverage of the launch starting about one hour before liftoff on Youtube: link

For official updates regarding launch times, SpaceX.com is the best source of information. Starlink launch times change from time to time, and the company generally updates their website within minutes of the decision to change the launch time. This is very handy if none of the streaming options on YouTube have started their broadcasts.

SpaceX Falcon 9 / Galileo L13 at the launch mount at Space Launch Complex 40 on September 17th.
Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

Remember that there is a delay between a launch stream and the actual countdown clock. That is simply because of physics: it takes time for the signal to travel from the launch site, through the Internet, and back down to your phone, resulting in a five to fifteen-second delay.

Next Space Flight an app for iOS and Android phones, has a real-time countdown clock that is accurate to a second, give or take. The app is free. Search the App Store or Google Play. They are also on the web: nextspaceflight.com.

Launch Viewing: In Person

Since the launch is during the early evening, a lot of options are available for spectators: Jetty Park, the Banana River Bridge on FL 528 W or the southern Titusville parks on Washington Avenue / US-1 are your best bets.

Playalinda Beach is several miles north of the launch pad, but ignition and of course the flight of the rocket are visible from that location. If you go, go early in case the crowds are heavy.

Other options include The Space Bar, a rooftop bar at the Courtyard By Marriott in Titusville. It offers great views of the launches and a full bar and menu. Other options include New York, New York on the Indian River in Titusville, but if you want to grab a bite, go early, because their kitchen usually closes for the day around 6:30 PM.

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Falcon 9 late in first stage flight.
Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

Lather, Rinse, Repeat: SpaceX plans to launch another set of twenty-three Starlink satellites, this time from Pad LC-39A at Kennedy Space Center.

The launch window is similar to last week’s Starlink 10-9 launch — it opens at 12:19 AM EDT and extends until 05:02 AM EDT the same day. Should weather or technical reasons arise and cause a delay, the company has a similar launch window Saturday, August 3.

After it completes its portion of the mission, the booster will land offshore on ASDS ‘A Shortfall Of Gravitas’, which is stationed offshore downrange on the Atlantic Ocean near the Carolinas. Since this is not a Return To Launch Site mission, no sonic booms will be heard on the Space Coast.

The launch will be SpaceX’s 76th of 2024 and its 15th launch from LC-39A this year. Overall, it will be the 386th SpaceX launch of all time.

At A Glance

  • Mission: Starlink 10-6
  • Date: NET August 2, 2024
  • Launch Window: 12:19 AM – 05:02 AM EDT*
  • Weather: 95% Go during the primary launch window
  • Organization: SpaceX
  • Rocket: Falcon 9
  • Trajectory: Northeastward
  • Launch Site: LC-39A, Kennedy Space Center
  • Booster Landing: Offshore on ASDS A Shortfall of Gravitas
  • Payload: Communications satellite to geosynchronous orbit.
  • Destination: Low-Earth Orbit

    * consult SpaceX website for the specific target for T-0.

Payload

The payload for this mission is a familiar one: twenty-three Starlink satellites. Starlink provides low-latency, high-bandwidth Internet connectivity to its customers.

Starlink orbital rendering by FetchCFD

Weather

General Forecast

Generally speaking, the threat of the usual afternoon and evening storms have died away for the evening by midnight, and tonight is no exception.

Temperature~81° F / 26.9°C
Humidity~90%
PrecipitationNone, Probably
Cloud cover~1% estimated
Windspeed (at ground level)12-14 MPH / 5.5 m/s
Visibility~8.7 miles / 14.0 km

As shown below, the 45th’s forecast states, “Storms will meander the Space Coast area but will subside in advance of the launch windows each day leaving just lingering dissipating clouds. Additionally, during the launch windows there is a small chance for nocturnal storms to develop over the water near the coastline, especially on Saturday morning. Primary concerns for each day would be the Cumulus Cloud Rule.”

That in mind, the 45th is forecasting only a 5% Probability of Violations for weather conditions, meaning that they rate chances for acceptable conditions at 95%. They also have rated the probability of a problem at the booster landing area as “low.”

The official forecast from the 45th Weather Squadron:

45th Weather Squadron’s forecast on August 1, 2024
Retrieved 11am 08/01/2024

Trajectory

The trajectory for the Starlink 10-6 mission is a familiar path: northeastward, the customary direction for SpaceX’s Group 10 Starlink launches. The rocket right-to-left if you are on the Space Coast and facing in the direction of the Atlantic Ocean.

Landing

After completing its part of the mission, the first stage booster will land offshore on the Automated Spaceport Drone Ship ‘A Shortfall Of Gravitas.’

As such, there will be no sonic boom on the Space Coast.

Online Viewing

SpaceCoastLaunchCalendar.com will have a livestream of the launch if you’re not able to watch the launch in person: Livestream

SpaceX will have a livestream of the launch on their website: Starlink 10-6. This will also be available on the X platform. Coverage starts about five minutes before liftoff.

Spaceflight Now will have coverage of the launch starting about one hour before liftoff on Youtube: link

For official updates regarding launch times, SpaceX.com is the best source of information. Starlink launch times change from time to time, and the company generally updates their website within minutes of the decision to change the launch time. This is very handy if none of the streaming options on YouTube have started their broadcasts.

Remember that there is a delay between a launch stream and the actual countdown clock. That is simply because of physics: it takes time for the signal to travel from the launch site, through the Internet, and back down to your phone, resulting in a five to fifteen-second delay.

Next Space Flight an app for iOS and Android phones, has a real-time countdown clock that is accurate to a second, give or take. The app is free. Search the App Store or Google Play. They are also on the web: nextspaceflight.com.

Launch Viewing: In Person

This morning’s planned launch is from LC-39A of the Eastern Range (KSC and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station combined.) The northern parks in Titusville on Washington Avenue and FL-528/A1A in Cape Canaveral are the best spots to watch liftoff directly.

Indirect Views

There are several excellent viewing spots for LC-39A launches that offer indirect views — meaning you won’t see the rocket until it clears obstructions such as trees, buildings, even a storm berm in one case.

  • Jetty Park, Port Canaveral
    • Fee required, much be purchased in advance: Port Canaveral Store
    • It’s very possible to see a cruise ship coming or going.
    • The pier especially has great views
  • Cocoa Beach
    • Parking fees (probably). Pay with your smartphone on the parking app. There are signs everywhere telling you how.
    • Further away, but still good views.
  • Southern Titusville Parks
    • Further away, but really nice views.

Restaurants With Good Launch Views

Given that the launch window opens after midnight and closes before dawn, local restaurants will be closed before liftoff and will not re-open before the end of the window.

Booster: unknown

SpaceX states “This is the 12th flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched Crew-6, O3b mPOWER, USSF-124, and eight Starlink missions.”

That’s Booster B1078, which last flew forty days ago as part of the Starlink 10-2 mission.

Booster B1078
Flight NumberPayloadDate
1Crew-6March 2, 2023
2O3b mPOWER 3 & 4April 28, 2023
3Starlink 6-4June 4, 2023
4Starlink 6-8August 7, 2023
5Starlink 6-16September 16, 2023
6Starlink 6-31December 3, 2023
7USSF-124February 14, 2024
8Starlink 6-46March 25, 2024
9Starlink 6-53April 23, 2024
10Starlink 6-60May 28, 2024
11Starlink 10-2June 23, 2024
Booster B1078 as of 06/23/2024
Liftoff of a Falcon 9 as seen from Cocoa Beach.
Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

Countdown Timeline

There are key events in the countdown that you may hear called out in launch coverage.

Remember that once Propellant Loading (T-minus thirty-eight minutes) starts, Falcon 9 is committed to the launch attempt. Because of the nature of the cryogenic fuels used to power the rockets, any hold precludes a later launch attempt the same day. While it only rarely happens, there have been occasions where that has happened, and a launch scrub is called for the day’s attempt.

SpaceX provides the following countdown milestones on their mission information page:

Hours:Minutes:SecondsEvent
00:38:00SpaceX Launch Director verifies go for propellant load
00:35:00*RP-1 (rocket grade kerosene) loading begins
00:35:001st stage LOX (liquid oxygen) loading begins
00:16:002nd stage LOX loading begins
00:07:00Falcon 9 begins engine chill prior to launch
00:01:00Command flight computer to begin final prelaunch checks
00:01:00Propellant tank pressurization to flight pressure begins
00:00:45SpaceX Launch Director verifies go for launch
00:00:03Engine controller commands engine ignition sequence to start
00:00:00Falcon 9 liftoff
* after propellant loading begins, SpaceX is committed, and any holds until liftoff results in a scrub for the day. This is important if the weather is marginal.
Via SpaceX. SpaceX countdown timeline is presented for information purposes only and can be changed by the launch provider without notice.

Timeline of Falcon 9 Flight

SpaceX has published a timeline of expected events during the mission:

Hours:Minutes:SecondsEvent
00:00:00Liftoff
00:01:10Max-Q (Moment of peak mechanical stress on the rocket)
00:02:261st stage main engine cutoff (MECO)
00:02:301st and 2nd stages separate
00:02:362nd stage engine starts (SES-1)
00:02:57Fairing deployment
00:06:051st stage entry burn begins
00:06:281st stage entry burn ends
00:07:461st stage landing burn begins
00:08:141st stage landing
00:08:392nd stage engine cutoff (SECO-1)
00:54:402nd stage engine starts (SES-2)
00:54:422nd stage engine cutoff (SECO-2)
01:03:34Starlink satellites deploy
via: SpaceX. SpaceX flight timeline is presented for information purposes only and can be changed by the launch provider without notice.

All events up to the end of the 1st stage entry burn should be visible for launch spectators watching the launch in person, so long as clouds are not blocking the viewer’s line of sight.

Keep Up To Date With Space News

Keep up with launch news and other space events that affect the local area by subscribing to alerts when we publish a new article by entering your email at the link at the bottom of this page, or by visiting Space Talk here on the website. It’s free, and you can cancel at any time.

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Typical Falcon 9 on its launch pad at Space Launch Complex 40.
Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

Fresh on the heels of a successful Return to Flight mission of Falcon 9 this morning, SpaceX plans to launch another set of twenty-three Starlink satellites, this time from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station early Sunday morning.

The launch window is similar to this morning’s Starlink 10-9 launch as well: it opens at 12:13 AM EDT and extends until 04:43 AM EDT the same day. Should weather or technical reasons arise and cause a delay, the company has a similar launch window Monday, July 29.

After it completes its portion of the mission, the booster will land offshore on ASDS ‘A Shortfall Of Gravitas’, which is stationed offshore downrange on the Atlantic Ocean near the Carolinas. Since this is not a Return To Launch Site mission, no sonic booms will be heard on the Space Coast.

The launch will be SpaceX’s 74th of 2024 and its 35th from SLC-40 this year. Overall, it will be the 386th SpaceX launch of all time.

At A Glance

  • Mission: Starlink 10-4
  • Date: NET July 28, 2024
  • Launch Window: 12:13 AM – 04:43 AM EDT*
  • Weather: 85% Go during the primary launch window
  • Organization: SpaceX
  • Rocket: Falcon 9
  • Trajectory: Northeastward
  • Launch Site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
  • Booster Landing: Offshore on ASDS A Shortfall of Gravitas
  • Payload: Communications satellite to geosynchronous orbit.
  • Destination: Low-Earth Orbit

    * consult SpaceX website for the specific target for T-0.

Payload

The payload for this mission is the same as this morning: twenty-three Starlink satellites. Starlink provides low-latency, high-bandwidth Interet connectivity to its customers and began serving its first users in the Autumn of 2020. Currently, there are over 6,000 active Starlink satellites in low Earth orbit, serving over three million customers in over 100 countries worldwide.

Rendering of Starlink satellites in orbit.
Graphic: SpaceX

Weather

General Forecast

Once again, the weather looks good for a launch tonight, especially given the season. The 45th Weather Squadron of the US Space Force — the group that produces the official launch forecast and provides range weather services — has not ruled out the possibility of a shower or an anvil cloud entering the launch region and causing a delay.

Temperature80° F / 26.7°C
Humidity~80%
PrecipitationNone, Probably
Cloud cover~65%
Windspeed (at ground level)12 MPH / 5.5 m/s
Visibillity~10.6 miles / 17.0 km

As shown below, the 45th’s forecast states, “Models are divided on development of any late evening convection nearby, but persistence suggests there will be enough instability that a few popups can’t be ruled out even late night if outflows do move through. Anvil level flow will remain out of the north-northeast, bringing a messy mix of frontal cloudiness, convective debris, and remnant anvils across the Spaceport for both launch windows. These will present the main forecast concern, with a smaller threat for locally developing showers with any outflows. There are currently no clear trends throughout the windows as the front and mid-level trough digging into the east coast will likely keep any convection to the north going into the late evening.”

Despite these concerns the 45th is rating the chances of acceptable weather at 85% GO, with only a 15% Probability of Violation.

The official forecast from the 45th Weather Squadron:

45th Weather Squadron Starlink 10-4 Forecast issued July 27.
Retrieved 11:00 AM EDT, 27 July 2024
A cumulonimbus incus — an Anvil Cloud.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Trajectory

The trajectory for the Starlink 10-4 mission is northeastward, the customary direction for SpaceX’s Group 10 Starlink launches. The rocket right-to-left if you are on the Space Coast and facing in the direction of the Atlantic Ocean.

Landing

After completing its part of the mission, the first stage booster will land offshore on the Automated Spaceport Drone Ship ‘A Shortfall Of Gravitas.’

As such, there will be no sonic boom on the Space Coast.

Online Viewing

SpaceCoastLaunchCalendar.com will have a livestream of the launch if you’re not able to watch the launch in person: Livestream

SpaceX will have a livestream of the launch on their website: Starlink 10-4. This will also be available on the X platform. Coverage starts about five minutes before liftoff.

Spaceflight Now will have coverage of the launch starting about one hour before liftoff on Youtube: link

For official updates regarding launch times, SpaceX.com is the best source of information. Starlink launch times change from time to time, and the company generally updates their website within minutes of the decision to change the launch time. This is very handy if none of the streaming options on YouTube have started their broadcasts.

Remember that there is a delay between a launch stream and the actual countdown clock. That is simply because of physics: it takes time for the signal to travel from the launch site, through the Internet, and back down to your phone, resulting in a five to fifteen-second delay.

Next Space Launch an app for iOS and Android phones, has a real-time countdown clock that is accurate to a second, give or take. The app is free. Search the App Store or Google Play.

Launch Viewing: In Person

This morning’s planned launch is from SLC-40, on the south side of the Eastern Range (KSC and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station combined.) The southern parks in Titusville on Washington Avenue and FL-528/A1A in Cape Canaveral are the best spots to watch liftoff directly.

Indirect Views

There are several excellent viewing spots for SLC-40 launches that offer indirect views — meaning you won’t see the rocket until it clears obstructions such as trees, buildings, even a storm berm in one case.

  • Jetty Park, Port Canaveral
    • Fee required, much be purchased in advance: Port Canaveral Store
    • It’s very possible to see a cruise ship coming or going.
    • The pier especially has great views
  • Cocoa Beach
    • Parking fees (probably). Pay with your smartphone on the parking app. There are signs everywhere telling you how.
    • Further away, but still good views.
  • Northern Titusville Parks
    • Further away, but really nice views.

Restaurants With Good Launch Views

Given that the launch window opens after midnight and closes before dawn, local restaurants will be closed before liftoff and will not re-open before the end of the window.

Booster: B1077

According to SpaceX, “This is the 14th flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched Crew-5, GPS III Space Vehicle 06, Inmarsat I6-F2, CRS-28, Intelsat G-37, NG-20, and seven Starlink missions.” That’s Booster B1077.

SpaceX Booster B1077
FlightMissionDate
1Crew-510/15/2023
2GPS III SV0601/18/2023
3 Inmarsat-6 F202/18/2023
4Starlink Group 5-1003/29/2023
5Dragon CRS-2 SpX-2806/05/2023
6Galaxy 3708/03/2023
7Starlink Group 6-1309/01/2023
8Starlink Group 6-2510/30/2023
9Starlink Group 6-3312/07/2023
10Northrup Grumman NG-2001/30/2024
11Starlink Group 6-4303/10/2024
12Starlink Group 6-5104/17/2024
13Starlink Group 6-6306/05/2024
Booster 1077 flight record as of June 5, 2024

SpaceX has not yet announced which Falcon 9 booster will fly tonight’s mission.

A time-lapse “launch streak” shot of a Falcon 9’s flight as seen from Cocoa Beach. While ignition and liftoff will not be directly visible, the majority of the flight will be clear to observers, clouds permitting.
Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

Countdown Timeline

There are key events in the countdown that you may hear called out in launch coverage.

Remember that once Propellant Loading (T-minus thirty-eight minutes) starts, Falcon 9 is committed to the launch attempt. Because of the nature of the cryogenic fuels used to power the rockets, any hold precludes a later launch attempt the same day. While it only rarely happens, there have been occasions where that has happened, and a launch scrub is called for the day’s attempt.

SpaceX provides the following countdown milestones on their mission information page:

Hours:Minutes:SecondsEvent
00:38:00SpaceX Launch Director verifies go for propellant load
00:35:00*RP-1 (rocket grade kerosene) loading begins
00:35:001st stage LOX (liquid oxygen) loading begins
00:16:002nd stage LOX loading begins
00:07:00Falcon 9 begins engine chill prior to launch
00:01:00Command flight computer to begin final prelaunch checks
00:01:00Propellant tank pressurization to flight pressure begins
00:00:45SpaceX Launch Director verifies go for launch
00:00:03Engine controller commands engine ignition sequence to start
00:00:00Falcon 9 liftoff
* after propellant loading begins, SpaceX is committed, and any holds until liftoff results in a scrub for the day. This is important if the weather is marginal.
Via SpaceX. SpaceX countdown timeline is presented for information purposes only and can be changed by the launch provider without notice.

Timeline of Falcon 9 Flight

SpaceX has published a timeline of expected events during the mission:

Hours:Minutes:SecondsEvent
00:00:00Liftoff
00:01:10Max-Q (Moment of peak mechanical stress on the rocket)
00:02:261st stage main engine cutoff (MECO)
00:02:301st and 2nd stages separate
00:02:362nd stage engine starts (SES-1)
00:02:57Fairing deployment
00:06:051st stage entry burn begins
00:06:281st stage entry burn ends
00:07:461st stage landing burn begins
00:08:141st stage landing
00:08:392nd stage engine cutoff (SECO-1)
00:54:402nd stage engine starts (SES-2)
00:54:422nd stage engine cutoff (SECO-2)
01:03:34Starlink satellites deploy
via: SpaceX. SpaceX flight timeline is presented for information purposes only and can be changed by the launch provider without notice.

All events up to the end of the 1st stage entry burn should be visible for launch spectators watching the launch in person, so long as clouds are not blocking the viewer’s line of sight.

Keep Up To Date With Space News

Keep up with launch news and other space events that affect the local area by subscribing to alerts when we publish a new article by entering your email at the link at the bottom of this page, or by visiting Space Talk here on the website. It’s free, and you can cancel at any time.

Read more

Starlink launching in 2023 from SLC-40 in Cape Canaveral.

 

A SpaceX Falcon 9 lifts off in August of last year to start a Starlink mission from Florida.
Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

SpaceX plans to launch a Falcon 9 carrying twenty-three Starlink satellites from Kennedy Space Center’s Pad LC-39A early Saturday morning. The launch window opens at 12:21 AM EDT on July 27 and extends until 04:21 AM the same day. If needed, the company has a backup launch window at the same time, twenty-four hours later, on July 28.

After it completes its portion of the mission, the booster will land offshore on ASDS ‘Just Read The Instructions’, which is stationed offshore.

SpaceX official announcement

SpaceX is targeting Saturday, July 27 for a Falcon 9 launch of 23 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Liftoff is targeted for 12:21 a.m. ET, with backup opportunities available until 4:21 a.m. ET. If needed, additional opportunities are also available on Sunday, July 28 starting at the same time.

The launch will be SpaceX’s 73rd launch of 2024, and its 14th launch from LC-39A this year. Overall, it will 384th SpaceX launch all time. This flight will be the first since the Starlink 9-3 mishap on July 11.

At A Glance

  • Mission: Starlink 10-9
  • Date: NET July 27, 2024
  • Launch Window: 12:21 AM – 04:21 AM EDT*
  • Weather: 85% Go during the primary launch window
  • Organization: SpaceX
  • Rocket: Falcon 9
  • Trajectory: Northeastward
  • Launch Site: LC-39A, Kennedy Space Center
  • Booster Landing: Offshore on ASDS Just Read The Instructions
  • Payload: Communications satellite to geosynchronous orbit.
  • Destination: Low-Earth Orbit

    * consult SpaceX website for the specific target for T-0.

Payload

The payload for this mission is a familiar one: twenty-three Starlink satellites. Once deployed and operational, the satellites will join SpaceX’s Starlink constellation that provides Internet connectivity to over three million subscribers in over 100 countries globally.

Each Starlink satellite has a lifespan of approximately five years.

Starlink Mini V2 satellites being deployed in orbit.
Photo: SpaceX

Weather

Weather is looking good, considering that it is the Dog Days of summer in Florida, which means that inclement weather is a threat anywhere at any time.

As such, the 45th Weather Squadron states, “The western Atlantic ridge axis is north of the Spaceport with deep onshore flow continuing to drive the east coast seabreeze quickly inland each afternoon. Lingering effects from Saharan dust will keep conditions drier than normal, with lower chances for overnight coastal showers. The primary weather concern for an attempt early Saturday morning is the Cumulus Cloud Rule associated with a stray coastal shower.”

They are rating the chances of a weather-related scrub at 15% in the primary launch window, meaning there is an 85% chance of acceptable conditions during the launch window.

Trajectory

The trajectory for the Starlink 10-9 mission is northeastward, or right-to-left if you are on the Space Coast and facing in the direction of the Atlantic Ocean.

Landing

After completing its part of the mission, the first stage booster will land offshore on the Automated Spaceport Drone Ship ‘Just Read The Instructions.’

As such, there will be no sonic boom on the Space Coast.

Online Viewing

SpaceCoastLaunchCalendar.com will have a livestream of the launch if you’re not able to watch the launch in person: Livestream

SpaceX will have a livestream of the launch on their website: Starlink 10-9. This will also be available on the X platform. Coverage starts about five minutes before liftoff.

Spaceflight Now will have coverage of the launch starting about one hour before liftoff on Youtube: link

For official updates regarding launch times, SpaceX.com is the best source of information. Starlink launch times change from time to time, and the company generally updates their website within minutes of the decision to change the launch time. This is very handy if none of the streaming options on YouTube have started their broadcasts.

Remember that there is a delay between a launch stream and the actual countdown clock. That is simply because of physics: it takes time for the signal to travel from the launch site, through the Internet, and back down to your phone, resulting in a five to fifteen-second delay.

Next Space Launch an app for iOS and Android phones, has a real-time countdown clock that is accurate to a second, give or take. The app is free. Search the App Store or Google Play.

Launch Viewing: In Person

Late-night/early morning launches from LC-39A have somewhat limited viewing options, meaning that Playalinda Beach, the Merritt Island National Seashore, and most restaurants will be closed during the launch window.

That does not mean that good views are not available there are some excellent options, albeit from a slightly further distance than day or early evening liftoffs.

The best direct views of liftoff are the northern Titusville riverfront parks, one of the local businesses or Playalinda Beach: 

If you plan to view launches, don’t forget the bug spray and possibly a flashlight to light your way to the viewing area.

Booster B1069

According to SpaceX, tonight’s booster previously launched “This is the 17th flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched CRS-24, Eutelsat HOTBIRD 13F, OneWeb 1, SES-18 and SES-19, and 12 Starlink missions.”

B1069’s last flight was June 8, 2024, when it launched the Starlink 10-1 mission from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

B1069 May 5, 2024
FlightMissionLaunch Date
1CRS-24December 21, 2021
2Starlink 4-23August 28, 2022
3Hotbird 13FOctober 15, 2022
4OneWeb 15December 8, 2022
5Starlink 5-3February 2, 2023
6SES 18 & 19March 17, 2023
7Starlink 5-6May 4, 2023
8Starlink 5-12June 23, 2023
9Starlink 6-9August 11, 2023
10Starlink 6-19September 30, 2023
11Starlink 6-28November 18, 2023
12Starlink 6-36December 29, 2023
13Starlink 6-39February 25, 2024
14Starlink 6-47April 5, 2024
15Starlink 6-57May 6, 2024
16Starlink 10-1June 8, 2024
As of June 8, 2024
Booster B1069 launching the Starlink 6-57 mission in May 2024. This view was from the Banana River Bridge in Cape Canaveral.
Photo: Charles Boyer / Talk of Titusville

Countdown Timeline

There are key events in the countdown that you may hear called out in launch coverage.

Remember that once Propellant Loading (T-minus thirty-eight minutes) starts, Falcon 9 is committed to the launch attempt. Because of the nature of the cryogenic fuels used to power the rockets, any hold precludes a later launch attempt the same day. While it only rarely happens, there have been occasions where that has happened, and a launch scrub is called for the day’s attempt.

SpaceX provides the following countdown milestones on their mission information page:

Hours:Minutes:SecondsEvent
00:38:00SpaceX Launch Director verifies go for propellant load
00:35:00*RP-1 (rocket grade kerosene) loading begins
00:35:001st stage LOX (liquid oxygen) loading begins
00:16:002nd stage LOX loading begins
00:07:00Falcon 9 begins engine chill prior to launch
00:01:00Command flight computer to begin final prelaunch checks
00:01:00Propellant tank pressurization to flight pressure begins
00:00:45SpaceX Launch Director verifies go for launch
00:00:03Engine controller commands engine ignition sequence to start
00:00:00Falcon 9 liftoff
* after propellant loading begins, SpaceX is committed, and any holds until liftoff results in a scrub for the day. This is important if the weather is marginal.
Via SpaceX. SpaceX countdown timeline is presented for information purposes only and can be changed by the launch provider without notice.

Timeline of Falcon 9 Flight

SpaceX has published a timeline of expected events during the mission:

Hours:Minutes:SecondsEvent
00:00:00Liftoff
00:01:10Max-Q (Moment of peak mechanical stress on the rocket)
00:02:261st stage main engine cutoff (MECO)
00:02:301st and 2nd stages separate
00:02:362nd stage engine starts (SES-1)
00:02:57Fairing deployment
00:06:051st stage entry burn begins
00:06:281st stage entry burn ends
00:07:461st stage landing burn begins
00:08:141st stage landing
00:08:392nd stage engine cutoff (SECO-1)
00:54:402nd stage engine starts (SES-2)
00:54:422nd stage engine cutoff (SECO-2)
01:03:34Starlink satellites deploy
via: SpaceX. SpaceX flight timeline is presented for information purposes only and can be changed by the launch provider without notice.

All events up to the end of the 1st stage entry burn should be visible for launch spectators watching the launch in person, so long as clouds are not blocking the viewer’s line of sight.

Keep Up To Date With Space News

Keep up with launch news and other space events that affect the local area by subscribing to alerts when we publish a new article by entering your email at the link at the bottom of this page, or by visiting Space Talk here on the website. It’s free, and you can cancel at any time.

Read more