We visited the Kennedy Space Center in 2022 and was fascinated by the exhibits, wouldn’t it be neat to watch a launch? When it turned out that a rocket launch would be happening when we were in the general area, I knew that we had to go to watch. It was the SpaceX Falcon 9 carrying the Koreasat 6A satellite launch on November 11, 2024.
Having read what a draw a launch brings, and not wanting to miss the opportunity, I made us leave early to ensure a parking spot in our desired location. Justin probably thought I was crazy, you can see the launch from so many places – it won’t be a big deal. We got there, with plenty of spaces to chose from.
With our spot secured, we settled in to enjoy the pre-launch atmosphere. The beach was already buzzing with anticipation, families setting up blankets, amateur astronomers adjusting telescopes, and the general air of excitement that comes with witnessing something extraordinary. We spent the extra time strolling along the sand, listening to the waves crash, and soaking in the Florida sunshine, the anticipation building with each passing minute. It was also getting unbearably hot.
For the view, we (and almost everyone else) watched from the small pathway over the dunes. As the countdown commenced, broadcast over various apps and online streams, a hush fell over the beach. All eyes turned towards the distant launchpad.
Then, the moment arrived. A brilliant flash of light erupted against the blue sky, followed by the unmistakable roar of the Falcon 9’s engines. The sound, a deep and powerful rumble, washed over us, vibrating through the sand beneath our feet. Slowly, majestically, the rocket ascended, a bright spear of fire climbing higher and higher, leaving a thick plume of white smoke in its wake.
For two and a half minutes, all eyes were in the sky. Folks near by were saying “wow”, “amazing”, “incredible”. The vibration of the rocket set off a few car alarms (which thankfully the owners turned off quickly). Then a time came when you couldn’t see it anymore, but we were all still looking up, awaiting its reentry and then the sonic boom.
It was a very neat experience. Watching that incredible feat of engineering defy gravity, carrying its precious cargo towards orbit, was awe-inspiring. The sheer power of the launch was felt even from miles away. You could track its progress as it became a tiny point of light against the vast expanse of the sky, the roar gradually fading into a distant hum.
The shared experience with hundreds of other onlookers, all gazing upwards in silent wonder, added to the magic of the moment. The take off volume and the sonic boom was incredible to experience.
Witnessing a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch is a reminder of human ingenuity and our relentless push to explore beyond our planet. Our early start and beachside vantage point provided a fantastic perspective on this impressive achievement, a moment of collective awe under the Florida sun.
I would certainly do it again!