SpaceX Memorial Day weekend rocket launch: Where to watch from Daytona, New Smyrna, Oak Hill
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SpaceX Memorial Day weekend rocket launch: Where to watch from Daytona, New Smyrna, Oak Hill
SpaceX will launch a payload of Starlink satellites on a Falcon 9 rocket into low-Earth orbit. The launch window is between 1:19 p.m. and 5:50 p.M. ET, and the trajectory is southeast. Weather permitting, a rocket launch from Florida’s Space Coast could be visible from Jacksonville Beach and Daytona Beach to Vero Beach and West Palm Beach. You can watch live rocket launch coverage at floridatoday.com/space, starting 90 minutes before liftoff. In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County — home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station — you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launch. The best views to watch a rocketLaunch from here is along the beach. Recommended spots: South New Smyrna Beach (Canaveral National Seashore) and Oak Hill, near the southernmost city in Volusian County, Florida. For more space news from the USA TODAY Network, visit floridsay.com.
The launch window is between 1:19 p.m. and 5:50 p.m. ET, and the trajectory is southeast.
The launch may be visible from various locations in Volusia County, including New Smyrna Beach, Oak Hill, and Daytona Beach.
Can a rocket launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida, be seen from Volusia County skies? If the conditions are right, yes!
And when this “so Florida” thing occurs, it’s very Instagram-worthy.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will potentially carry Starlink internet-beaming satellites into low-Earth orbit near NASA on Saturday, May 24, a Federal Aviation Administration operations plan advisory shows.
Though rockets here launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center near Merritt Island, Florida, or Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, people from the Treasure Coast can sometimes see this phenomenon.
Weather permitting and depending on cloud cover, a rocket launch from Florida’s Space Coast could be visible from Jacksonville Beach and Daytona Beach to Vero Beach and West Palm Beach (see videos and photo gallery with this story). When there’s a launch window in the middle of the night or very early morning, there’s an opportunity for unique photos — the rocket lights up the dark sky and the contrail after makes for a great photo.
Below is more information on rocket launches in Florida and suggestions on where to watch them from the Fun Coast.
For questions or comments, email FLORIDA TODAY Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridatoday.com or Space Reporter Brooke Edwards at bedwards@floridatoday.com. For more space news from the USA TODAY Network, visit floridatoday.com/space.
When is the next SpaceX rocket launch in Florida? No earlier than Saturday, May 24: SpaceX Starlink 12-22
Mission: SpaceX will launch a payload of Starlink satellites on a Falcon 9 rocket into low-Earth orbit, a Federal Aviation Administration operations plan advisory indicates.
SpaceX will launch a payload of Starlink satellites on a Falcon 9 rocket into low-Earth orbit, a Federal Aviation Administration operations plan advisory indicates. Launch window: 1:19 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 24, 2025
1:19 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 24, 2025 Launch location: Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Cape Canaveral, Florida
Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Cape Canaveral, Florida Trajectory : Southeast
: Southeast Live coverage starts 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space: You can watch live rocket launch coverage from USA TODAY Network’s Space Team, which consists of FLORIDA TODAY space reporters Rick Neale and Brooke Edwards and visuals journalists Craig Bailey, Malcolm Denemark and Tim Shortt. Our Space Team will provide up-to-the-minute updates in a mobile-friendly live blog, complete with a countdown clock, at floridatoday.com/space, starting 90 minutes before liftoff. You can download the free FLORIDA TODAY app, which is available in the App Store or Google Play, or type floridatoday.com/space into your browser.
Where to see Florida rocket launch in Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach area
In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County — home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station — you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launch. The best views to watch a rocket launch from here is along the beach. Look due south. Recommended spots:
• South New Smyrna Beach (Canaveral National Seashore)
• Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, 6656 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Bethune Beach is 3.5 miles south of New Smyrna Beach and one mile north of the Apollo Beach entrance to Canaveral National Seashore Park.
• Apollo Beach at Canaveral National Seashore (south of New Smyrna Beach). Canaveral National Seashore runs along Florida’s East Coast in Volusia County and Brevard County. To access Apollo Beach, take Interstate 95 to exit 249, then travel east until it turns into State Road A1A. Follow SR A1A south to the park entrance.
• Oak Hill riverfront is the southernmost city in South Volusia County.
• Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill
• Goodrich’s Seafood and Oyster House back deck, 253 River Road, Oak Hill
• Seminole Rest national historic site, 211 River Road, Oak Hill
• Riverbreeze Park, 250 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill
• Mary Dewees Park, 178 N. Gaines St., Oak Hill
• Nancy Cummings Park, 232 Cummings St., Oak Hill
• Jimmie Vann Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill
• A.C. Delbert Dewees Municipal Pier, 243 River Road, Oak Hill
• Bird Observation Pier on River Road across from A.C. Delbert Municipal Pier (see above)
• Rose Bay in Port Orange, Florida
• beaches along New Smyrna Beach, Florida
• New Smyrna Beach Inlet, New Smyrna Beach lifeguard station
• Halifax Harbor Marina in Daytona Beach, Florida
• Ormond-by-the-Sea in Ormond Beach, Florida
• George R. Kennedy Memorial Park in Edgewater, Florida
SpaceX rocket launch in Florida: Where to watch in Daytona, New Smyrna Beach, Oak Hill
SpaceX will launch a Falcon 9 rocket on another mission deploying Starlink broadband satellites. Weather permitting, a SpaceX rocket launch from Florida’s Space Coast could be visible from Jacksonville Beach and Daytona Beach to Vero Beach and West Palm Beach. In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County — home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station — you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launches. For more space news from the USA TODAY Network, visit floridatoday.com/space. For questions or comments, email FLORIDA TODAY Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridatsentinel.com or Space Reporter Brooke Edwards at bedwards@flaridatsenior.com. The best views to watch a rocketLaunch from here is along the beach. Look due south. The river by the park can be a great viewing spot for manatees, dolphins and pelicans. There may be parking costs.
Weather permitting and depending on cloud cover, a SpaceX rocket launch from Florida’s Space Coast could be visible from Jacksonville Beach and Daytona Beach to Vero Beach and West Palm Beach. When there’s a launch window in the middle of the night or very early morning, there’s an opportunity for unique photos — the rocket lights up the dark sky and the contrail after makes for a great photo.
Below is more information on rocket launches from NASA and Cape Canaveral and suggestions on where to watch them from this part of Florida.
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Rocket launch tally: Here’s a list of all the missions from Cape Canaveral, Florida (psst, there’s a lot)
For questions or comments, email FLORIDA TODAY Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridatoday.com or Space Reporter Brooke Edwards at bedwards@floridatoday.com. For more space news from the USA TODAY Network, visit floridatoday.com/space.
When is Florida rocket launch? Tuesday, May 6: SpaceX Starlink 6-93
Mission: SpaceX will launch a Falcon 9 rocket on another mission deploying Starlink broadband satellites, a Federal Aviation Administration operations plan advisory indicates.
Launch window time and day: 8:22 p.m. EDT Tuesday, May 6, 2025, to 12:53 a.m. EDT Wednesday, May 7, 2025
Location of rocket launch : Launch complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Cape Canaveral, Florida
Sonic booms: No
Trajectory : Southeast
Live FLORIDA TODAY Space Team coverage: Starts 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space.
In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County — home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station — you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launches.
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The best views to watch a rocket launch from here is along the beach. Look due south. Readers have also mentioned seeing a rocket launch from New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. Here are some recommended spots:
• South New Smyrna Beach (Canaveral National Seashore), there may be parking costs. New Smyrna Beach features 17 miles of white sandy beaches. An eclectic and quaint beach town, despite its reputation as the “Shark Bite Capital of the World,” New Smyrna Beach has always been a haven for surfers who come for the waves.
• Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, 6656 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Bethune Beach, which is 3.5 miles south of New Smyrna Beach and one mile north of the Apollo Beach entrance to Canaveral National Seashore Park, has restrooms, picnic pavilions, showers and nearly 800 feet of beachfront sidewalk, according to Volusia County’s site. The nearby riverside park area is across South Atlantic Avenue with tennis courts, pickle ball courts, basketball and volleyball courts, playground, fishing pier and restrooms. The river by the park can be a great viewing spot for manatees, dolphins and pelicans.
• Apollo Beach at Canaveral National Seashore (south of New Smyrna Beach). Canaveral National Seashore runs along Florida’s East Coast in Volusia County and Brevard County. To access Apollo Beach, take Interstate 95 to exit 249, then travel east until it turns into State Road A1A. Follow SR A1A south to the park entrance.
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• Oak Hill riverfront is the southernmost city in South Volusia County.
• Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill
• Seminole Rest national historic site, 211 River Road, Oak Hill
• Riverbreeze Park, 250 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill
• Mary Dewees Park, 178 N. Gaines St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a rental building, playground, baseball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, outdoor restrooms, pavilions, picnic areas and grills.
• Nancy Cummings Park, 232 Cummings St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a playground, baseball field, basketball courts, outdoor pavilion and restrooms.
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• Jimmie Vann Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill. This location has about 350 feet of beautifully restored shoreline, according to the city of Oak Hill online. Facilities include a pavilion, picnic tables and kayak launching facilities.
• A.C. Delbert Dewees Municipal Pier, 243 River Road, Oak Hill. Facilities include a 520-foot observation pier with two covered decks and seating, the city of Oak Hill site states.
• Bird Observation Pier on River Road across from A.C. Delbert Municipal Pier (see above). Facilities include a 100-foot observation pier
Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @byjensangalang. Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: SpaceX rocket launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida: When is liftoff?
SpaceX rocket launch in Florida: When is liftoff? Where to watch in Daytona, New Smyrna Beach
A SpaceX rocket launch from Florida’s Space Coast could be visible from Daytona Beach to Melbourne to Vero Beach. In some cases, a Falcon 9 rocket launch has been spotted as far south as West Palm Beach. A rocket launch can be a treat for the ears, too: On the Space Coast, a “rumble” can be heard or window-shaking can be expected. The SpaceX boosters return to a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean or, occasionally, to the company’s landing zone at Cape Canaveral. You can watch live rocket launch coverage at floridatoday.com/space, starting 90 minutes before liftoff. For more space news from the USA TODAY Network, visit floridsentinel.com or the FLORIDA TODAY Space Team’s Facebook page, @floridatsentinel or on Twitter @FLoridasentinel and @SpaceTeamFB. The best views to watch a rocket launch in Volusia County are along the beach.
Liftoff is tentatively set late Saturday, April 5, if things go according to plan for the space agency.
Weather permitting and depending on cloud cover, this SpaceX rocket launch from Florida’s Space Coast could be visible from Daytona Beach to Melbourne to Vero Beach. In some cases, a Falcon 9 rocket launch has been spotted as far south as West Palm Beach. When there’s a launch window in the middle of the night or very early morning, there’s an opportunity for unique photos — the rocket lights up the dark sky and the contrail after makes for a great photo.
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A rocket launch can be a treat for the ears, too: On the Space Coast, a “rumble” can be heard or window-shaking can be expected in some parts of Brevard County after liftoff. And some rocket launches have an added bonus: The SpaceX boosters return to a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean or, occasionally, to the company’s landing zone at Cape Canaveral. If a booster returns to the landing zone, there’s a sonic boom.
Rocket launch calendar: Is there a launch today? Upcoming SpaceX, NASA rocket launch schedule at Cape Canaveral
Can a rocket launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center or Cape Canaveral, Florida, be seen outside of Florida? Once again depending on weather and on cloud cover, yes. For example, readers have submitted photos or posted on social platforms pictures of Falcon Heavy, which is made up of three Falcon 9 rocket first stages, visible from Myrtle Beach.
For questions or comments, email FLORIDA TODAY Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridatoday.com or Space Reporter Brooke Edwards at bedwards@floridatoday.com. For more space news from the USA TODAY Network, visit floridatoday.com/space.
When is the next rocket launch from Florida? Saturday, April 5, 2025: SpaceX Starlink 6-72
Mission: SpaceX will launch a Falcon 9 rocket carrying the latest batch of Starlink internet satellites.
Launch time and day: 11:07 p.m. EDT Saturday, April 5
Location: SpaceX will attempt liftoff from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Trajectory : Southeast
Live coverage at floridatoday.com: You can watch live rocket launch coverage from USA TODAY Network’s Space Team, which consists of FLORIDA TODAY space reporters Rick Neale and Brooke Edwards and visuals journalists Craig Bailey, Malcolm Denemark and Tim Shortt. Our Space Team will provide up-to-the-minute updates in a mobile-friendly live blog, complete with a countdown clock and SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch livestream at floridatoday.com/space, starting 90 minutes before liftoff. You can download the free FLORIDA TODAY app, which is available in the App Store or Google Play, or type “floridatoday.com/space” into your browser.
Live weather radar: Will it rain in Cape Canaveral, Florida, today? Will weather cancel a rocket launch near Kennedy Space Center?
Shown is the National Weather Service-Melbourne radar, which shows conditions in real-time for the Space Coast, Brevard County, Orlando and other parts of Florida. The current date and time show up on the bottom right of this radar embed; otherwise, you may need to clear your cache.
In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County — home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station — you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launches.
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The best views to watch a rocket launch from here is along the beach. Look due south. Readers have also mentioned seeing a rocket launch from New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. Here are some recommended spots:
• South New Smyrna Beach (Canaveral National Seashore), there may be parking costs. New Smyrna Beach features 17 miles of white sandy beaches. An eclectic and quaint beach town, despite its reputation as the “Shark Bite Capital of the World,” New Smyrna Beach has always been a haven for surfers who come for the waves.
• Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, 6656 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Bethune Beach, which is 3.5 miles south of New Smyrna Beach and one mile north of the Apollo Beach entrance to Canaveral National Seashore Park, has restrooms, picnic pavilions, showers and nearly 800 feet of beachfront sidewalk, according to Volusia County’s site. The nearby riverside park area is across South Atlantic Avenue with tennis courts, pickle ball courts, basketball and volleyball courts, playground, fishing pier and restrooms. The river by the park can be a great viewing spot for manatees, dolphins and pelicans.
• Apollo Beach at Canaveral National Seashore (south of New Smyrna Beach). Canaveral National Seashore runs along Florida’s East Coast in Volusia County and Brevard County. To access Apollo Beach, take Interstate 95 to exit 249, then travel east until it turns into State Road A1A. Follow SR A1A south to the park entrance.
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• Oak Hill riverfront is the southernmost city in South Volusia County.
• Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill
• Seminole Rest national historic site, 211 River Road, Oak Hill
• Riverbreeze Park, 250 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill
• Mary Dewees Park, 178 N. Gaines St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a rental building, playground, baseball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, outdoor restrooms, pavilions, picnic areas and grills.
• Nancy Cummings Park, 232 Cummings St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a playground, baseball field, basketball courts, outdoor pavilion and restrooms.
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• Jimmie Vann Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill. This location has about 350 feet of beautifully restored shoreline, according to the city of Oak Hill online. Facilities include a pavilion, picnic tables and kayak launching facilities.
• A.C. Delbert Dewees Municipal Pier, 243 River Road, Oak Hill. Facilities include a 520-foot observation pier with two covered decks and seating, the city of Oak Hill site states.
• Bird Observation Pier on River Road across from A.C. Delbert Municipal Pier (see above). Facilities include a 100-foot observation pier.
(This story was updated with new information.)
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Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @byjensangalang. Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: SpaceX rocket launch from Cape Canaveral: What time is liftoff?
SpaceX rocket launch: What time is liftoff? Where to see it in Daytona, New Smyrna Beach
SpaceX plans to send a Falcon 9 rocket with several Starlink satellites into orbit. Depending on cloud cover, weather and visibility, people from Daytona Beach to Ormond Beach and other parts of the Fun Coast might see a nice streak in the sky. The best views to watch a rocket launch from here is along the beach along the New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach and Ormond beaches. If there are changes to the launch schedule, this story will be updated. The SpaceX Falcon 9 will attempt liftoff from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 11:10 p.m. Saturday, March 8. You can watch live rocket launch coverage from the USA TODAY Network’s Space Team at floridatoday.com/space and on the FLORIDA TODAY app. The next SpaceX rocket launch is scheduled for March 9, 2025, when Daylight saving time starts at 2 a.m., according to the space agency’s website. The U.S. Air Force says it has no immediate plans to launch a rocket from Florida.
An evening rocket launch in semi-cool and semi-breezy Florida could launch Saturday, March 8, if things go according to plan for the space agency.
SpaceX plans to send a Falcon 9 rocket with several Starlink satellites into orbit. And depending on weather and visibility, there could be a show in the sky above the Fun Coast.
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Rockets launch from Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral, Florida, in neighboring Brevard County, which is an hour east of the Orlando theme parks. Depending on cloud cover, weather and visibility, people from Daytona Beach to Ormond Beach and other parts of the Fun Coast might see a nice streak in the sky — given the proximity to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Below are suggestions on where to watch the rocket launch from this area and other things to know. If there are changes to the launch schedule, this story will be updated.
Rocket launch calendar: Is there a launch today? Upcoming SpaceX, NASA rocket launch schedule at Cape Canaveral
For questions or comments, email FLORIDA TODAY Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridatoday.com or Space Reporter Brooke Edwards at bedwards@floridatoday.com. For more space news from the USA TODAY Network, visit floridatoday.com/space.
Where can I see a rocket launch in Florida? Can you see liftoff from New Smyrna Beach or Daytona Beach?
Weather permitting and depending on cloud cover, yes, rocket launches from neighboring Space Coast could be visible in the Volusia County area. When there’s a launch window in the middle of the night or very early morning, there’s an opportunity for unique photos — the rocket lights up the dark sky and the contrail after makes for a great photo.
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Below are suggestions on where to watch them and photos of previous rocket launches as seen from the Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach and Port Orange areas of Florida.
When is the next rocket launch from Florida? Saturday, March 8: SpaceX Starlink 12-21
Mission: A SpaceX Falcon 9 will launch a payload of Starlink internet-beaming satellites into low-Earth orbit, a Federal Aviation Administration operations plan advisory shows.
Launch window: 11:10 p.m. EDT Saturday, March 8, to 3:41 a.m. Sunday, March 9. Note: Daylight saving time starts at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 9, 2025.
Location: The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will attempt liftoff from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Trajectory: Southeast
Live coverage starts 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space: You can watch live rocket launch coverage from USA TODAY Network’s Space Team, which consists of FLORIDA TODAY space reporters Rick Neale and Brooke Edwards and visuals journalists Craig Bailey, Malcolm Denemark and Tim Shortt. Our Space Team will provide up-to-the-minute updates in a mobile-friendly live blog, complete with a countdown clock and SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch livestream at floridatoday.com/space, starting 90 minutes before liftoff. You can download the free FLORIDA TODAY app, which is available in the App Store or Google Play, or type floridatoday.com/space into your browser.
Live weather radar: Will it rain in Cape Canaveral, Florida, today? Will weather cancel a rocket launch?
Shown is the National Weather Service-Melbourne radar, which shows conditions in real-time for the Space Coast, Brevard County, Orlando and other parts of Florida. The current date and time show up on the bottom right of this radar embed; otherwise, you may need to clear your cache.
In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County — home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station — you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launches.
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The best views to watch a rocket launch from here is along the beach. Look due south. Readers have also mentioned seeing a rocket launch from New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. Here are some recommended spots:
• South New Smyrna Beach (Canaveral National Seashore), there may be parking costs. New Smyrna Beach features 17 miles of white sandy beaches. An eclectic and quaint beach town, despite its reputation as the “Shark Bite Capital of the World,” New Smyrna Beach has always been a haven for surfers who come for the waves.
• Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, 6656 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Bethune Beach, which is 3.5 miles south of New Smyrna Beach and one mile north of the Apollo Beach entrance to Canaveral National Seashore Park, has restrooms, picnic pavilions, showers and nearly 800 feet of beachfront sidewalk, according to Volusia County’s site. The nearby riverside park area is across South Atlantic Avenue with tennis courts, pickle ball courts, basketball and volleyball courts, playground, fishing pier and restrooms. The river by the park can be a great viewing spot for manatees, dolphins and pelicans.
• Apollo Beach at Canaveral National Seashore (south of New Smyrna Beach). Canaveral National Seashore runs along Florida’s East Coast in Volusia County and Brevard County. To access Apollo Beach, take Interstate 95 to exit 249, then travel east until it turns into State Road A1A. Follow SR A1A south to the park entrance.
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• Oak Hill riverfront is the southernmost city in South Volusia County.
• Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill
• Seminole Rest national historic site, 211 River Road, Oak Hill
• Riverbreeze Park, 250 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill
• Mary Dewees Park, 178 N. Gaines St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a rental building, playground, baseball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, outdoor restrooms, pavilions, picnic areas and grills.
• Nancy Cummings Park, 232 Cummings St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a playground, baseball field, basketball courts, outdoor pavilion and restrooms.
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• Jimmie Vann Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill. This location has about 350 feet of beautifully restored shoreline, according to the city of Oak Hill online. Facilities include a pavilion, picnic tables and kayak launching facilities.
• A.C. Delbert Dewees Municipal Pier, 243 River Road, Oak Hill. Facilities include a 520-foot observation pier with two covered decks and seating, the city of Oak Hill site states.
• Bird Observation Pier on River Road across from A.C. Delbert Municipal Pier (see above). Facilities include a 100-foot observation pier.
Rocket launch photo from Port Orange, Florida
In May 2016, Jesse Paquin took an amazing photo of a Friday morning SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch, watching from Rose Bay in Port Orange, Florida.
Rocket launch photos from New Smyrna Beach, Florida
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Rocket launch photos from Daytona Beach, Florida
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Rocket launch photo from Ormond-by-the-Sea, Florida
(This story was updated with new information.)
Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper to support local journalism.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: SpaceX in Florida: When is the next rocket launch from Cape Canaveral?
SpaceX rocket launch Memorial Day weekend: Where to watch in Daytona, New Smyrna, Oak Hill
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch a payload of Starlink internet satellites. The launch is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. EDT Tuesday, May 28, after a previous attempt Monday, May 27, or Memorial Day 2024. The best views to watch a rocket launch from here is along the beach. If you want to watch live rocket launch coverage, FLORIDA TODAY’s Space Team will provide updates at floridatoday.com/space, starting about 90 minutes before launch time. For questions or comments, email Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridacounty.com or tweet him @rickneale1 on X, the social platform formerly known as Twitter. You can download the free app for iPhone or Android or type floridsayout.com into your browser to get the latest news on the launch calendar for the month of May. If there are changes to the launch date, this story will be updated. The Florida TODAY Network-Florida newspaper provides interactive launch coverage with frequent updates on launches.
Got plans for the long holiday weekend?
If you’re hanging out on the beaches, parks or rivers in the Fun Coast of Florida, you’re probably already having fun.
Add watching a rocket launch as another fun thing to do this weekend. Potentially, you’ll have a chance to see a SpaceX Falcon 9 lift off after Monday, May 27, or Memorial Day 2024.
Can you see a rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center or Cape Canaveral in near Daytona Beach or New Smyrna Beach?
Weather permitting and depending on cloud cover, yes, rocket launches from neighboring Space Coast could be visible in Volusia County area. Below is a calendar for upcoming rocket launches and suggestions on where to watch them. If there are changes to the launch, this story will be updated.
Is there a rocket launch today in Florida? Rocket launch calendar for Florida missions
Here’s what we know about the rocket launch missions, mentioned in FLORIDA TODAY’s rocket launch calendar for the month, which is updated frequently. (Check that link often for rocket launch times and dates because they are routinely subject to change for a variety of reasons.)
FLORIDA TODAY, a USA TODAY Network-Florida newspaper, provides interactive launch coverage at floridatoday.com/space with frequent updates on launches at least 90 minutes in advance, sometimes longer, depending on the mission. For questions or comments, email Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridatoday.com or tweet him @rickneale1 on X, the social platform formerly known as Twitter. You also can reach out to Space Reporter Brooke Edwards at bedwards@floridatoday.com or @brookeofstars on X and @brooke_of_stars on Instagram.
When’s the next rocket launch near Cape Canaveral, Florida? Tuesday, May 28: SpaceX Starlink
A National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency navigational advisory indicates another 4½-hour launch window will open Monday morning for a SpaceX Starlink mission.
Mission: A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch a payload of Starlink internet satellites.
Launch: 7:30 a.m. EDT Tuesday, May 28, after a previous attempt Monday, May 27, or Memorial Day 2024
Trajectory: Southeast
Local sonic boom: No
Booster landing: Drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean
Live coverage: If you want to watch live rocket launch coverage, FLORIDA TODAY’s Space Team will provide updates at floridatoday.com/space, starting about 90 minutes before launch time. You can download the free app for iPhone or Android or type floridatoday.com/space into your browser.
In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County — home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station — you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launch.
The best views to watch a rocket launch from here is along the beach. Look due south. Readers have also mentioned seeing a rocket launch from New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. Here are some recommended spots:
• South New Smyrna Beach (Canaveral National Seashore), there may be parking costs. New Smyrna Beach features 17 miles of white sandy beaches. An eclectic and quaint beach town, despite its reputation as the “Shark Bite Capital of the World,” New Smyrna Beach has always been a haven for surfers who come for the waves.
Dinner and a launch: Perfect for a SpaceX or NASA rocket launch, best waterfront restaurants in Volusia County
• Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, 6656 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Bethune Beach, which is 3.5 miles south of New Smyrna Beach and one mile north of the Apollo Beach entrance to Canaveral National Seashore Park, has restrooms, picnic pavilions, showers and nearly 800 feet of beachfront sidewalk, according to Volusia County’s site. The nearby riverside park area is across South Atlantic Avenue with tennis courts, pickle ball courts, basketball and volleyball courts, playground, fishing pier and restrooms. The river by the park can be a great viewing spot for manatees, dolphins and pelicans.
• Apollo Beach at Canaveral National Seashore (south of New Smyrna Beach). Canaveral National Seashore runs along Florida’s East Coast in Volusia County and Brevard County. To access Apollo Beach, take Interstate 95 to exit 249, then travel east until it turns into State Road A1A. Follow SR A1A south to the park entrance.
• Oak Hill riverfront is the southernmost city in South Volusia County.
• Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill
• Goodrich’s Seafood and Oyster House back deck, 253 River Road, Oak Hill
• Seminole Rest national historic site, 211 River Road, Oak Hill
• Riverbreeze Park, 250 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill
• Mary Dewees Park, 178 N. Gaines St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a rental building,playground, baseball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, outdoorrestrooms, pavilions, picnic areas and grills.
• Nancy Cummings Park, 232 Cummings St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a playground, baseball field, basketball courts, outdoor pavilion and restrooms.
• Jimmie Vann Sunrise Park, 275 River Road, Oak Hill. This location has about 350 feet of beautifully restored shoreline, according to the city of Oak Hill online. Facilities include a pavilion, picnic tables and kayak launching facilities.
• A.C. Delbert Dewees Municipal Pier, 243 River Road, Oak Hill. Facilities include a520-foot observation pier with two covered decks and seating, the city of Oak Hill site states.
• Bird Observation Pier on River Road across from A.C. Delbert Municipal Pier (see above). Facilities include a 100-foot observation pier.
Rick Neale is a Space Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY (for more of his stories, click here.) Contact Neale at 321-242-3638 or rneale@floridatoday.com. Twitter/X: @RickNeale1
SpaceX rocket launch this weekend: List of Florida beaches, parks & best views to watch
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will potentially lift off on Friday night, carrying Starlink internet satellites. Weather permitting, the rocket launch will be visible in the sky above the Treasure Coast on the night of Friday, May 17. The best view to watch a rocket launch from the Space Coast is along the beach. A National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency navigational warning indicates a 4½-hour launch window will open Friday night for SpaceX’s next Starlink mission from thespace Coast. The launch will take place between 7:52 p.m. EDT Friday,May 17 until 12:01 a.m.,May 18. The rocket launch calendar for FLORIDA TODAY is updated frequently and is available at floridatoday.com/space. For questions or comments, email Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridatsentinel.com or tweet him @rickneale1 on X, the social platform formerly known as Twitter. The U.S. Air Force has a launch pad in Brevard County.
Weather permitting, the rocket launch will be visible in the sky above the Treasure Coast on the night of Friday, May 17. Below is a calendar for upcoming rocket launches and how to watch the SpaceX rocket launch this weekend.
Is there a rocket launch in Florida today? Rocket launch calendar for Florida
Here’s what we know about the rocket launch missions, mentioned in FLORIDA TODAY’s rocket launch calendar for the month, which is updated frequently. (Check that link often for rocket launch times and dates because they are routinely subject to change for a variety of reasons).
FLORIDA TODAY, a USA TODAY Network-Florida newspaper, provides interactive launch coverage at floridatoday.com/space with frequent updates on launches at least 90 minutes in advance, sometimes longer, depending on the mission.
For questions or comments, email Space Reporter Rick Neale at rneale@floridatoday.com or tweet him @rickneale1 on X, the social platform formerly known as Twitter.
Is SpaceX launching from Florida? Friday, May 17: SpaceX Starlink
A National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency navigational warning indicates a 4½-hour launch window will open Friday night for SpaceX’s next Starlink mission from the Space Coast.
Here are some details about the upcoming SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch:
Mission: A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch a batch of Starlink internet satellites.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch a batch of Starlink internet satellites. Launch: 7:52 p.m. EDT Friday, May 17 until 12:01 a.m. EDT Saturday, May 18.
7:52 p.m. EDT Friday, May 17 until 12:01 a.m. EDT Saturday, May 18. Trajectory: Southeast.
Southeast. Local sonic boom: No.
No. Booster landing: Drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean.
Drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Live coverage: Starts 90 minutes before liftoff at floridatoday.com/space.
Pretty much anywhere in Brevard, you’ll get a view of the rocket launch. The best view to watch a rocket launch from the Space Coast is along the beach. However, visibility will depend on weather conditions and people should make sure not to block traffic or rights of way on bridges and to follow posted rules at beaches.
If you are viewing the launch along the Indian River in Titusville from Space View Park or Parrish Park, look east directly across the river.
If you are farther south along the Indian River, look northeast.
Playalinda Beach or Canaveral National Seashore is the closest spot to view liftoff because it is almost parallel to Launch Pad 39A. On the beach, look south along the coastline, (you can even see the pad from some spots).
Some hotspots to check out:
Jetty Park Beach and Pier , 400 Jetty Park Road, Port Canaveral. Note, there’s a charge to park.
, 400 Jetty Park Road, Port Canaveral. Note, there’s a charge to park. Playalinda Beach , 1000 Playalinda Beach Road, Canaveral National Seashore. Note, there’s a charge to park, and access to Canaveral National Seashore isn’t always granted depending on capacity and time of day.
, 1000 Playalinda Beach Road, Canaveral National Seashore. Note, there’s a charge to park, and access to Canaveral National Seashore isn’t always granted depending on capacity and time of day. Max Brewer Bridge and Parrish Park , 1 A. Max Brewer Memorial Parkway, Titusville. Note, parking is available on both sides of Max Brewer Bridge.
, 1 A. Max Brewer Memorial Parkway, Titusville. Note, parking is available on both sides of Max Brewer Bridge. Space View Park , 8 Broad St., Titusville
, 8 Broad St., Titusville Sand Point Park , 10 E. Max Brewer Causeway, Titusville
, 10 E. Max Brewer Causeway, Titusville Rotary Riverfront Park , 4141 S. Washington Ave., Titusville
, 4141 S. Washington Ave., Titusville Alan Shepard Park , 299 E. Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach. Note, there could be parking costs.
, 299 E. Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach. Note, there could be parking costs. Cocoa Beach Pier , 401 Meade Ave. Parking fee varies.
, 401 Meade Ave. Parking fee varies. Lori Wilson Park , 1400 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach. Lori Wilson Park has a dog park, by the way.
, 1400 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach. Lori Wilson Park has a dog park, by the way. Sidney Fischer Park , 2200 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach. Note, there could be parking costs.
, 2200 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach. Note, there could be parking costs. Sebastian Inlet Park , 9700 S. State Road A1A, Melbourne Beach (there is a cost to enter)
, 9700 S. State Road A1A, Melbourne Beach (there is a cost to enter) Ambersands Beach Park , 12566 N. SR A1A, Vero Beach (free parking)
, 12566 N. SR A1A, Vero Beach (free parking) South Beach Park , 1700 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach (free parking)
, 1700 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach (free parking) Merrill Barber Bridge in Vero Beach
Alma Lee Loy Bridge in Vero Beach
Can I see a rocket from the Treasure Coast? Where can I see a launch in Indian River County, St. Lucie County and Martin County?
The best views to watch a rocket launch from neighboring Brevard County, aka the Space Coast, is along the beach.
Visibility in Indian River County, St. Lucie County and Martin County, all part of the Treasure Coast, will depend on weather conditions, and people should make sure not to block traffic or rights of way on bridges and to follow posted rules at beaches. Look due north. Here are some recommended spots, from closest to Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center to farthest:
Pretty much anywhere in Brevard, you’ll get a view of the rocket launch. That includes Melbourne Beach, which borders Indian River County, or from Grant-Valkaria along the Indian River Lagoon.
Sebastian Inlet Park , 9700 S. State Road A1A, Melbourne Beach (there is a cost to enter)
, 9700 S. State Road A1A, Melbourne Beach (there is a cost to enter) Wabasso Beach Park , 1808 Wabasso Beach Road, Wabasso
, 1808 Wabasso Beach Road, Wabasso Ambersands Beach Park , 12566 N. SR A1A, Vero Beach (free parking)
, 12566 N. SR A1A, Vero Beach (free parking) South Beach Park , 1700 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach (free parking)
, 1700 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach (free parking) Merrill Barber Bridge in Vero Beach
in Vero Beach Alma Lee Loy Bridge in Vero Beach
in Vero Beach Fort Pierce Inlet , 905 Shorewinds Drive
, 905 Shorewinds Drive Blind Creek Beachside North and South, South Ocean Drive or SR A1A on Hutchinson Island in Fort Pierce
North and South, South Ocean Drive or SR A1A on Hutchinson Island in Fort Pierce Blue Heron Beach , 2101 Blue Heron Blvd., Fort Pierce
, 2101 Blue Heron Blvd., Fort Pierce Frederick Douglass Memorial Park , 3600 S. Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce
, 3600 S. Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce Dollman Park Beachside , 9200 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach
, 9200 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach Herman’s Bay Beach , 7880 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach
, 7880 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach John Brooks Park Beachside , 3300 S Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce
, 3300 S Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce Middle Cove Beach , 4600 South Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce
, 4600 South Ocean Drive, Fort Pierce Normandy Beach in Jensen Beach
in Jensen Beach Pepper Park Beachside , 3302 N. SR A1A, Fort Pierce,
, 3302 N. SR A1A, Fort Pierce, Walton Rocks Beach , which has a dog park, 6700 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach
, which has a dog park, 6700 South Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach Waveland Beach , 10350 S. Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach
, 10350 S. Ocean Drive, Jensen Beach House of Refuge and beach , 301 S.E. MacArthur Blvd., Stuart
, 301 S.E. MacArthur Blvd., Stuart State Road A1A causeway in Stuart
Watching a rocket launch or waiting for that launch window while at the beach is a pretty Florida thing to do.
In Volusia County, immediately north of Brevard County — home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station — you can get a great view of a SpaceX, NASA or United Launch Alliance rocket launch.
The best views to watch a rocket launch from here is along the beach. Look due south. Readers have also mentioned seeing a rocket launch from New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. Here are some recommended spots:
South New Smyrna Beach (Canaveral National Seashore), there may be parking costs. New Smyrna Beach features 17 miles of white sandy beaches. An eclectic and quaint beach town, despite its reputation as the “Shark Bite Capital of the World,” New Smyrna Beach has always been a haven for surfers who come for the waves.
Dinner and a launch: Perfect for a SpaceX or NASA rocket launch, best waterfront restaurants in Volusia County
Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park , 6656 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Bethune Beach, which is 3.5 miles south of New Smyrna Beach and one mile north of the Apollo Beach entrance to Canaveral National Seashore Park, has restrooms, picnic pavilions, showers and nearly 800 feet of beachfront sidewalk, according to Volusia County’s site. The nearby riverside park area is across South Atlantic Avenue with tennis courts, pickle ball courts, basketball and volleyball courts, playground, fishing pier and restrooms. The river by the park can be a great viewing spot for manatees, dolphins and pelicans.
, 6656 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Bethune Beach, which is 3.5 miles south of New Smyrna Beach and one mile north of the Apollo Beach entrance to Canaveral National Seashore Park, has restrooms, picnic pavilions, showers and nearly 800 feet of beachfront sidewalk, according to Volusia County’s site. The nearby riverside park area is across South Atlantic Avenue with tennis courts, pickle ball courts, basketball and volleyball courts, playground, fishing pier and restrooms. The river by the park can be a great viewing spot for manatees, dolphins and pelicans. Apollo Beach at Canaveral National Seashore (south of New Smyrna Beach). Canaveral National Seashore runs along Florida’s East Coast in Volusia County and Brevard County. To access Apollo Beach, take Interstate 95 to exit 249, then travel east until it turns into State Road A1A. Follow SR A1A south to the park entrance.
at Canaveral National Seashore (south of New Smyrna Beach). Canaveral National Seashore runs along Florida’s East Coast in Volusia County and Brevard County. To access Apollo Beach, take Interstate 95 to exit 249, then travel east until it turns into State Road A1A. Follow SR A1A south to the park entrance. Oak Hill riverfront is the southernmost city in South Volusia County.
is the southernmost city in South Volusia County. Sunrise Park , 275 River Road, Oak Hill
, 275 River Road, Oak Hill Goodrich’s Seafood and Oyster House back deck, 253 River Road, Oak Hill
back deck, 253 River Road, Oak Hill Seminole Rest national historic site , 211 River Road, Oak Hill
, 211 River Road, Oak Hill Riverbreeze Park , 250 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill
, 250 H.H. Burch Road, Oak Hill Mary Dewees Park , 178 N. Gaines St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a rental building, playground, baseball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, outdoor restrooms, pavilions, picnic areas and grills.
, 178 N. Gaines St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a rental building, playground, baseball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, outdoor restrooms, pavilions, picnic areas and grills. Nancy Cummings Park , 232 Cummings St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a playground, baseball field, basketball courts, outdoor pavilion and restrooms.
, 232 Cummings St., Oak Hill. Facilities include a playground, baseball field, basketball courts, outdoor pavilion and restrooms. Jimmie Vann Sunrise Park , 275 River Road, Oak Hill. This location has about 350 feet of beautifully restored shoreline, according to the city of Oak Hill online. Facilities include a pavilion, picnic tables and kayak launching facilities.
, 275 River Road, Oak Hill. This location has about 350 feet of beautifully restored shoreline, according to the city of Oak Hill online. Facilities include a pavilion, picnic tables and kayak launching facilities. A.C. Delbert Dewees Municipal Pier , 243 River Road, Oak Hill. Facilities include a 520-foot observation pier with two covered decks and seating, the city of Oak Hill site states.
, 243 River Road, Oak Hill. Facilities include a 520-foot observation pier with two covered decks and seating, the city of Oak Hill site states. Bird Observation Pier on River Road across from A.C. Delbert Municipal Pier (see above). Facilities include a 100-foot observation pier.
Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network-Florida. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @byjensangalang. Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper.
Source: https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/2025/05/23/spacex-rocket-launch-florida-how-watch-this-weekend-memorial-day-volusia-daytona-new-smyrna-beach/83799091007/