Skywatchers along the Treasure Coast are in for a potential holiday treat this weekend. SpaceX is targeting a nighttime launch of a Falcon 9 rocket from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, scheduled to lift off on the first night of Hanukkah, Sunday, December 14, 2025.
Residents in Vero Beach and throughout Indian River County should have excellent visibility of this event, weather permitting. Nighttime launches are particularly spectacular as the rocket’s engines light up the dark sky, creating a visual phenomenon often visible as far south as West Palm Beach.
The mission will carry 29 Starlink internet satellites into low-Earth orbit. Because the trajectory is heading Southeast, the glowing arc of the rocket should be easily trackable from local beaches and bridges. Unlike some recent missions involving booster returns to land, this launch will not generate sonic booms, ensuring a quiet evening for residents.
Launch Details at a Glance:
Mission: SpaceX Falcon 9 carrying 29 Starlink satellites.
Launch Window: Opens at 9:43 p.m. ET on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, and closes at 1:43 a.m. ET on Monday, Dec. 15.
Location: Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Trajectory: Southeast.
Best Viewing Locations in Indian River County
While the launch occurs at the Cape, you do not need to leave the county to get a breathtaking view. The following locations in and around Vero Beach have been identified as prime viewing spots for this specific trajectory:
- Vero Beach Bridges: Both the Merrill Barber Bridge and the Alma Lee Loy Bridge offer elevated vantage points to look north-northeast toward the launch site.
- South Beach Park: Located at 1700 Ocean Drive in Vero Beach, offering free parking and a wide view of the horizon.
- Ambersands Beach Park: Located at 12566 N. SR A1A in Vero Beach, also noted for free parking.
- Wabasso Beach Park: Situated at 1808 Wabasso Beach Road, providing easy beach access for northern county residents.
- Sebastian Inlet State Park: For those willing to drive slightly north to 9700 S. State Road A1A in Melbourne Beach, this location offers one of the closest unobstructed views from the local area (note that standard park entry fees apply).
Viewing Conditions and Tips
Night launches provide a unique opportunity for photography. The contrast of the bright rocket plume against the night sky often creates a “jellyfish” effect or a brilliant streak that is visible for hundreds of miles.
If you plan to head to the beach, authorities remind spectators to follow all posted rules and ensure they do not block traffic or rights of way on bridges. For those who prefer to watch from home, live coverage will be available online via Florida Today and the USA TODAY Network, featuring a mobile-friendly live blog and countdown clock starting 90 minutes before liftoff.
