A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch the SiriusXM SXM-11 satellite from Florida’s Space Coast, with liftoff expected Sunday night or early Monday morning, June 28-29, 2026. The launch, from either Cape Canaveral Space Force Station or NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, follows a June 23 uncrewed demo mission for SpaceX’s new Starfall spacecraft. Weather permitting, the rocket’s ascent could be visible as far north as Jacksonville Beach and as far south as West Palm Beach.
SpaceX conducts 1 or 2 launches per week during some months, making this event part of a routine schedule. The launch window late Sunday or early Monday offers a unique chance for night photography, as the rocket’s plume will light up the dark sky. Residents and visitors along the Space Coast may see the vehicle’s contrail lingering after liftoff.
Optimal viewing spots include Cocoa Beach, Titusville, and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, though visibility depends on cloud cover and trajectory. NASA+ content, available through Amazon Prime Video, will stream the launch for those unable to watch in person. The satellite will be deployed into orbit to support SiriusXM’s services, though specifics about its mission were not detailed in the launch announcement.
This marks the second SpaceX mission in June 2026, with the Starfall demo mission on June 23 paving the way for future crewed flights. No additional details about the SXM-11 satellite’s payload or mission duration were provided. Launch updates will be shared by SpaceX and NASA as the event approaches.