SpaceX has pushed back its Falcon 9 rocket launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station until no earlier than 10:20 a.m. Thursday, March 19. The delay follows a cold front moving through Florida, which has kept the launch window open until 10:35 a.m. The mission aims to send the next batch of Starlink internet satellites into orbit from Launch Complex 40. Weather forecasters predict a 60 to 75% chance of favorable conditions during the launch window, but lingering clouds from the cold front could affect visibility.
The Falcon 9 rocket will follow a northeast trajectory after liftoff, potentially allowing residents north of the Cape to spot the vehicle if clouds break. SpaceX officials have not ruled out further delays but have emphasized the team is prepared to launch within the updated window. The rocket’s first stage is expected to land on the A Shortfall of Gravitas drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean about eight and a half minutes after liftoff. No sonic booms will be heard in Brevard County due to the booster’s landing location.
This mission marks the 10th Starlink launch of 2026 and the 33rd in the series. Starlink satellites are designed to expand global broadband coverage, with SpaceX planning to deploy thousands more over the next decade. The company has not disclosed the exact number of satellites on this mission but has said they will be deployed into low Earth orbit. Previous launches from Cape Canaveral have faced similar weather challenges, but SpaceX has maintained a high success rate despite delays.
Residents in the area are advised to monitor updates from the 45th Space Weather Squadron and SpaceX. The launch will be visible from coastal areas if weather permits, though viewing conditions remain uncertain. SpaceX has not yet announced plans for a public viewing event but has encouraged people to check the company’s social media for real-time updates. The mission is expected to take about 60 minutes from liftoff to the deployment of satellites into orbit.