A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Monday, Aug. 10, 2026, at 10:59 p.m. ET. The mission will deploy a batch of Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit, expanding the company’s global broadband network. The launch window was announced by USA TODAY NETWORK - Florida on Aug. 8, 2026, with details about visibility and viewing opportunities.
The rocket will lift off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, a site used for both military and commercial launches. Depending on weather and cloud cover, the launch may be visible from as far north as Jacksonville Beach and as far south as West Palm Beach. The timing—late evening—could offer unique photo opportunities as the rocket’s contrail lights up the night sky.
SpaceX has not disclosed the exact number of satellites in this mission, but previous Starlink launches have typically included between 50 and 60 units. The Falcon 9’s first stage will land at Landing Zone 1 near the launch site, a routine part of the company’s operations. Live coverage of the launch will be available on floridatoday.com/space, with updates provided by USA TODAY’s Space Team.
Residents along Florida’s Space Coast are encouraged to check weather forecasts before heading to viewing spots. The launch is part of SpaceX’s ongoing efforts to boost Starlink’s capacity, which has already provided internet services to remote areas worldwide. For more details, readers can contact USA TODAY Network reporters Rick Neale, Brooke Edwards, or Eric Lagatta via email.