Rocket Launch from Cape Canaveral Could Be Visible Throughout Florida
A ULA Atlas V rocket might be visible across most of Florida, weather conditions permitting. Did your city appear on the launch visibility map?
This story was updated to confirm that the ULA Atlas V rocket launch was scrubbed. A new launch time and date were announced.
Visibility and Location
People in Palm Beach County, as well as viewers in Jacksonville, Cape Coral, and Miami, could potentially see the rocket light up the sky after liftoff from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Visibility from much of Florida is likely, depending on weather and cloud cover.
Details of the Launch
The launch involved ViaSat-3 Flight 2, an “ultra-high-capacity broadband spacecraft” intended to significantly enhance Viasat’s satellite network. The rocket was to launch during a 44-minute window starting at 10:24 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 5, but was canceled before 11 p.m.
Launch Facts
- The Atlas V rocket was powered by five solid rocket boosters, providing a spectacular ascent.
- The launch trajectory and flight path are shown on the visibility map from ULA.
This event highlights the potential for viewing a major rocket launch across a broad region of Florida and beyond.
Author's summary: The canceled Atlas V launch from Cape Canaveral could have lit up skies across Florida, offering a rare view of rocket activity for residents and visitors.