SpaceX is targeting Sunday, March 29, for a Falcon 9 rocket launch from Florida’s Space Coast, carrying 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit. The launch window spans from 5:15 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. Eastern Time, according to SpaceX. The mission, known as Starlink 10-44, aims to expand global broadband coverage through the satellite network.
A separate launch by United Launch Alliance (ULA) scheduled for the same day has been postponed due to weather concerns, the Florida Today team reported. ULA’s mission was originally set for Sunday but was moved to an unspecified later date. This leaves SpaceX’s launch as the sole rocket event this weekend, though weather conditions could still affect the Falcon 9 attempt.
Residents of Volusia County, including Daytona Beach, may have a chance to see the Falcon 9’s ascent if weather permits. The rocket will launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center or Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, and visibility could extend as far north as Jacksonville Beach and as far south as West Palm Beach, depending on cloud cover and trajectory.
For optimal viewing, the Florida Today team suggests arriving early and finding a clear vantage point with an unobstructed view of the eastern sky. Nighttime or early morning launches offer unique photo opportunities, as the rocket’s glow and contrail become visible against the dark sky. Details about the mission and viewing tips are available on floridatoday.com/space.
Questions about the launch can be directed to USA TODAY Network reporters Rick Neale ([email protected]), Brooke Edwards ([email protected]), or Eric Lagatta ([email protected]).