A SpaceX rocket launch scheduled for Friday from Kennedy Space Center could be visible in Tallahassee under clear weather conditions, according to local astronomers. The launch, part of SpaceX's routine operations at the spaceport, is expected to occur between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. EST. Visibility depends on atmospheric conditions and the rocket's flight path, which arcs northeast over the Atlantic Ocean. "On a clear day, the plume should be visible as a bright white streak," said Dr. Emily Carter, an astronomy professor at Florida State University. "But clouds or haze could obscure it." The distance between Kennedy Space Center and Tallahassee is about 130 miles, making visibility a challenge. SpaceX has not confirmed if this launch will be visible from the Florida Panhandle, but past launches have been spotted in the region under similar conditions. Local residents have expressed interest in viewing the event, with some planning to drive to the coast for a better vantage point. "It's a rare opportunity to see a rocket launch without leaving the state," said Mark Thompson, a Tallahassee resident who has attended previous viewing events. The launch is part of SpaceX's Starlink satellite deployment mission, which aims to expand global broadband coverage. The company has conducted over 100 launches from the spaceport since 2020, with most visible from eastern Florida. However, visibility from west-central Florida is less common due to the rocket's trajectory. Weather forecasts for the launch day show a 60% chance of clouds, which could reduce visibility. Officials at the Florida Space Institute said they will monitor the launch and provide updates through their website. "We encourage people to check the forecast and plan accordingly," said institute spokesperson Lisa Nguyen. The launch is expected to last about eight minutes, with the rocket reaching an altitude of 50 miles before deploying its payload.