Rocket launches are happening weekly from America’s spaceports. Living in Ohio, I travel around the country chasing the next launch to photograph. But how do I know when the next launch will be? And with frequent delays and shifts in launch schedules, how do I know it’s still on?
Keep in mind, there are apps and other great resources online that track different launches. Here is how those resources get their information, aside from insider knowledge. These sources are often updated prior to any “official” launch change status. This list is primarily for Florida launches. Please note that links are current as of the time of writing and may change.
Launch Provider Updates
Launch providers will typically post on social media or their website a few days before a launch attempt. Often times it is earlier, however launch dates are extremely fluid, and information changes frequently. For secret launches, information is less available, making it difficult to know an exact date or time.
FAA TFRs
The Federal Aviation Administration will release TFRs (temporary flight restrictions, often referred to as no fly zones) a few days before launch. These serve as a warning to aircraft pilots that a launch is occurring and the area is off limits. These often begin before the launch countdown begins and extends past the launch window. In the past, launches would significantly impact air traffic flying into Florida. Within the past few years, the standard TFR zones were edited to reduce the limitations on air traffic. However, each launch is different, and payload plays a big role in the size and locations of TFR zones. A list of current TFRs can be found here: https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr2/list.html
FAA Launch Licenses
To launch in the US, launch providers must have a launch license certifying their rocket has met specific criteria from the FAA. Once certified, unless an anomaly occurs, a vehicle does not need to be licensed again. With newer rockets, companies will often launch very quickly after their vehicle is licensed (ex Starship). The actual mission is listed with a tentative date. https://www.faa.gov/data_research/commercial_space_data
Weather Reports
The 45th Space Wing (Part of Patrick Space Force Station) for KSC/CCSFS will release a weather report, usually 24-48 hours before a launch. The report is updated until T-1 day and following any delays or changes in the launch schedule. The report determines the probability of violation (POV) for each attempt and lists the weather criteria that could hinder the launch. Other launch sites will also create some variation of a weather report, however sometimes these are not public. Worth noting, recently these reports have been coming out closer to the intended launch window. The 45th also creates weather reports that are updated throughout the day (because Florida weather can change instantly). https://www.patrick.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Weather/
Notice To Mariners
Similar to a TFR, a Notice To Mariners is a keep out zone for marine vehicles. The notice will include times and restricted areas for marine traffic. Notices to Mariners are initiated by the US Coast Guard and can be found here. Space Launch Delta 45 and oftentimes Port Canaveral will share this information when available. https://www.patrick.spaceforce.mil/
Media Alerts
NASA will release media alerts for government launches (typically tax-funded missions, minus secret missions) weeks in advance with intended launch information. However, the information will often change as launch operations progress. https://www.nasa.gov/news/
Company Alerts
Companies that design payloads will often share intended launch information on their social media pages and websites in the time leading up to their launch.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Website
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (KSCVC) will post launches on their website and social media pages. They will NOT post every launch. Typically, the launches posted are launches that will have a large public interest or will have viewing opportunities through the KSCVC. https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/launches-and-events/events-calendar
Brevard County Emergency Management
Brevard County Emergency Management has a notification system that will share important events throughout the county, including launch attempts. However, these notifications typically go out shortly before the Range opens, not leaving much time to prepare if you’re wanting to witness the launch. You can signup for text and email alerts. https://www.brevardfl.gov/EmergencyManagement
Playalinda Beach/Cape Canaveral National Seashore
Being only a few miles from the launch pads, Playalinda Beach is a very popular place to view launches. Because of that, the beach will sometimes close to the public during certain launches depending on payload and trajectory. Cape Canaveral National Seashore will often post alerts on their website ahead of time to alert visitors of planned closures. Worth noting, the beach has specific hours that vary by season and will not be open for nighttime launches. https://www.nps.gov/cana/index.htm
Some other great places to watch can be found in our Launch Viewing Guide here.
Keep in mind, there are a million ways for launches to go wrong, but only one way they can go right. Launch dates are always changing, so be prepared and have backup plans in the event of a scrub. Fortunately, Florida has plenty of things to do to keep you busy until the next attempt!
