SpaceX rocket launch from Florida. Best places to watch near Palm Beach

SpaceX is scheduled to launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on Tuesday, February 24. The mission will carry 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. This launch is notable not only for its contribution to expanding satellite internet access, but also for its potential visibility to observers as far away as Jacksonville Beach and West Palm Beach, Florida.

Mission Details

The launch window for the SpaceX Starlink 6-110 mission is between 3:56 p.m. And 7:56 p.m. ET. The launch will originate from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Live coverage, including a countdown clock, will begin 90 minutes before liftoff and will be available at floridatoday.com/space, as well as through the FLORIDA TODAY app.

Did You Know? The SpaceX Starship rocket, launched from Starbase, Texas in October 2025, was reportedly spotted in parts of Palm Beach County, Florida, despite being approximately 1,500 miles away.

Viewing Opportunities and Conditions

Visibility of the launch from locations like Palm Beach County is dependent on weather conditions and cloud cover. A southeast trajectory and a nighttime or early morning launch window increase the chances of a successful viewing. Obstructed views from trees, buildings, and bright lights should be avoided.

The source notes that launches can provide unique photographic opportunities, as the rocket illuminates the dark sky and leaves a visible contrail. The distance from Cape Canaveral to West Palm Beach is approximately 150 miles.

Expert Insight: The potential for visibility of rocket launches over such distances highlights the increasing frequency and scale of space operations, and the growing public interest in these events. This visibility also underscores the logistical considerations for launch timing and trajectory planning, balancing mission objectives with opportunities for public engagement.

Potential Future Scenarios

If the February 24 launch is successful, SpaceX is likely to continue deploying Starlink satellites to expand its network. Further launches could follow a similar schedule, depending on operational needs and weather conditions. Should future launches occur with similar trajectories and timing, observers in Palm Beach County and other distant locations could again have the opportunity to witness these events. The USA TODAY Network’s Space Team will continue to provide updates on upcoming launches at floridatoday.com/space.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next rocket launch from Florida?

The next rocket launch from Florida is scheduled for Tuesday, February 24, with a launch window of 3:56 p.m. To 7:56 p.m. ET. It will be a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launching 29 Starlink satellites.

Where does SpaceX launch rockets from in Florida?

SpaceX launches rockets from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, as well as from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center near Merritt Island, Florida.

Can rocket launches be seen from Palm Beach County?

Yes, rocket launches from Florida’s Space Coast can sometimes be visible in Palm Beach County, depending on weather conditions, cloud cover, and the launch trajectory.

What factors might influence your decision to try and view a rocket launch from a distance?