A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch a national security payload designed by the National Reconnaissance Organization at 3:00 a.m. ET on Thursday, July 30, from Florida’s Space Coast. The launch, which will take place from either NASA’s Kennedy Space Center or Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, is expected to generate a sonic boom audible to residents across Brevard County. Weather permitting, the rocket’s ascent could be visible as far north as Jacksonville Beach and as far south as West Palm Beach. The launch window falls during early morning hours, offering a unique opportunity for skywatchers to see the rocket’s bright plume against the dark sky. Contrails left in the wake of the Falcon 9 may also provide striking photo opportunities for those willing to stay up late or wake early. SpaceX has not disclosed the specific mission details, but the payload is operated by the National Reconnaissance Organization, a U.S. intelligence agency responsible for space-based surveillance. Residents in the Space Coast area are advised to check weather forecasts and cloud cover conditions ahead of the launch, as visibility depends on atmospheric conditions. For those unable to view the event in person, NASA+ content featuring the launch will be available on Amazon Prime Video. The next scheduled SpaceX launch from Florida is expected to occur in late August, pending approval from the Federal Aviation Administration. For more information or to report viewing conditions, readers can contact USA TODAY Network reporters Rick Neale at [email protected], Brooke Edwards at [email protected], or Eric Lagatta at [email protected].