SpaceX will launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Monday, May 25, marking the first launch of Memorial Day. The mission, named Starlink 10-47, is scheduled for no earlier than 7:41 a.m. from Launch Complex 40. If delayed, the window extends until 11:41 a.m. The rocket will carry 29 Starlink internet satellites to orbit. This will be Florida’s 35th launch of the year, a sharp decline from last year’s record 109 launches.
The Falcon 9’s first stage booster will land on the A Shortfall of Gravitas drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean, avoiding sonic booms over Brevard County. SpaceX has reduced Falcon 9 launches this year as it prioritizes Starship operations at Cape Canaveral. The company previously moved its Just Read the Instructions drone ship to support Starship testing, leaving only one active launch pad for Falcon 9 in Florida.
The rocket will follow a northeast trajectory after liftoff. SpaceX typically launches Falcon 9 about twice weekly, but the pace has slowed as resources shift to Starship development. This mission highlights the ongoing balance between maintaining Starlink operations and advancing next-generation spacecraft.
The FLORIDA TODAY Space Team will provide live updates 90 minutes before liftoff at FloridaToday.com/Space. The launch will be visible to residents along the Florida coast, though no public viewing events are planned. This flight underscores SpaceX’s continued presence at Cape Canaveral despite the slowdown in Falcon 9 missions.