Night owls and early risers in Vero Beach and across the Treasure Coast are in for a potential celestial treat this coming week. Weather permitting, the skies over Indian River County will light up in the early morning hours of Monday, February 16, 2026, as SpaceX targets a nighttime launch of its Falcon 9 rocket.
Originally anticipated for Valentine’s Day, the schedule has shifted, offering a new opportunity to witness the spectacle from our local beaches and bridges. The launch is set to take place from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Because the launch window opens in the middle of the night, the contrast of the rocket’s engine against the dark sky often provides one of the most stunning viewing experiences available to Florida residents.
Mission Details and Timing
If you are planning to set your alarm, here are the specific details you need to know regarding the launch schedule and trajectory:
Mission: SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carrying 29 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit.
Launch Date: Monday, February 16, 2026.
Launch Window: Between 12:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. ET.
Trajectory: Southeast.
Sonic Boom: No sonic booms are expected for this mission.
Viewing Locations in Vero Beach and Indian River County
While the rocket lifts off from the Space Coast to our north, the Southeast trajectory and the clear sightlines over the Atlantic Ocean make the Treasure Coast a prime viewing corridor. For those in Vero Beach and the immediate surrounding areas, several locations offer excellent vantage points:
- Ambersands Beach Park: Located at 12566 N. State Road A1A in Vero Beach (offers free parking).
- South Beach Park: Located at 1700 Ocean Drive in Vero Beach (offers free parking).
- The Bridges: Both the Merrill Barber Bridge and the Alma Lee Loy Bridge in Vero Beach provide elevated views facing north/northeast toward the Cape.
- Wabasso Beach Park: Located at 1808 Wabasso Beach Road in Wabasso.
- Sebastian Inlet State Park: Located at 9700 S. State Road A1A, Melbourne Beach. Please note that an entry fee is required for the park.
Options for St. Lucie and Martin Counties
For our neighbors to the south in St. Lucie and Martin counties, the coastline remains the best option for visibility. Popular spots in Fort Pierce include Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and Blind Creek Beachside. In Stuart, the State Road A1A causeway and the House of Refuge are recommended viewing areas.
What to Expect
Night launches are particularly noted for their photographic potential. According to local reports, the rocket not only lights up the dark sky but often leaves a glowing contrail that makes for exceptional photography. However, visibility is strictly dependent on cloud cover and weather conditions at the time of liftoff.
If the trajectory holds and the skies remain clear, this event promises to be a memorable start to the week for the Treasure Coast community. Residents are encouraged to check local weather updates before heading out to the beaches or bridges during the early morning hours.
