Florida's Space Coast will have no rocket launches scheduled for the week of May 4, 2026, according to officials. The pause comes as the region continues to set records for orbital launches, with 109 missions completed in 2025 and 32 already this year. The first week of May will be a rare break from the usual activity, though several launches are expected later in the month, including a SpaceX mission to the International Space Station and a United Launch Alliance Atlas V launch.
The Space Coast's 2025 total of 109 orbital rocket launches broke all previous annual records. April 2026 was also a busy month, featuring NASA's Artemis II lunar mission, a ULA Atlas V launch, and a SpaceX Falcon Heavy flight that produced two sonic booms across Brevard County. Blue Origin's third New Glenn rocket launch also took place in April.
Upcoming launches in May include a SpaceX Falcon 9 carrying supplies to the ISS on May 12. However, no launches are planned for the first week of the month, a break that could allow residents and visitors to enjoy the night sky without the usual bright flares.
Rocket launches from the Space Coast are sometimes visible as far north as Jacksonville Beach and as far south as West Palm Beach, depending on weather and trajectory. The pause this week may give locals a chance to see the stars without interruption, though the region's launch schedule is expected to pick up again soon.
The absence of launches this week contrasts with the record pace of 2025 and the strong start to 2026. With multiple missions planned in the coming weeks, the Space Coast remains a central hub for space activity, even during brief lulls.