After postponing its original launch attempt early Monday morning, SpaceX is now targeting 5:15 a.m. EST Tuesday for its latest Starlink mission from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. However, the launch may be affected by patchy, dense fog forming in the area.
The Falcon 9 rocket will lift off from Launch Complex 40, carrying 21 Starlink internet satellites into low-Earth orbit. If necessary, backup launch opportunities are available until 6:24 a.m. in case of any last-minute technical or weather-related delays.
Unlike some previous launches, this Starlink 12-3 mission is not expected to create sonic booms over Central Florida. The rocket will follow a southeastern trajectory, and after completing its job, the first-stage booster will attempt to land on a SpaceX drone ship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.
Weather Conditions: Fog Could Impact Visibility
For those planning to watch the launch along the Space Coast, visibility may be significantly reduced due to thick fog in the region. The National Weather Service has issued a dense fog advisory for parts of northern Brevard County and coastal Volusia County, which is in effect until 10 a.m. Tuesday. In some areas, visibility could drop to less than ¼ mile, making it difficult for spectators to get a clear view of the launch.
Even if fog obscures the rocket’s ascent from the ground, SpaceX’s live webcast will provide a close-up view of the mission.
How to Watch the Launch Live
Space enthusiasts can follow FLORIDA TODAY’s Space Team for live launch coverage, which will begin about 90 minutes before liftoff on their website. Additionally, SpaceX’s official live webcast will start approximately five minutes before launch, allowing viewers to watch the countdown, liftoff, and booster landing attempt in real time. A direct link to the webcast will be posted below the countdown clock on the FLORIDA TODAY website once the stream goes live.
Another SpaceX Launch Scheduled for Tuesday Evening
SpaceX has a second launch scheduled for later on Tuesday, this time from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. At 6:07 p.m. EST, a different Falcon 9 rocket will lift off during a one-hour launch window, carrying the third pair of Maxar Space Systems-built WorldView Legion high-resolution imagery satellites into orbit.
These satellites are part of a growing network designed to provide detailed Earth imagery for various applications, including mapping, environmental monitoring, and intelligence gathering.
FLORIDA TODAY’s Space Team will also provide live updates for this mission, so space fans can stay tuned for coverage of both launches throughout the day.
