The Space Coast is anticipating an estimated 100,000 people are expected to descend on Brevard County for the historic Artemis launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, which is scheduled to launch Wednesday, November 16, at 1.04 a.m.
In the early hours of tomorrow morning, NASA’s Artemis I mega moon rocket is set to illuminate the sky as it launches on a 26-day mission. NASA say the spectacular launch will be seen and heard for miles around.
While excitement is building for NASA's first moon rocket launch in 50 years, local authorities are advising road users to expect heavy traffic congestion, and to plan accordingly for the planned launch from Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center.
NASA’s Artemis I flight test is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems, and the 8.8 million pounds of thrust produced by NASA's Space Launch System rocket will be heard and felt for miles in Central Florida,
If you’re making your way to the Space Coast to experience the worlds most powerful rocket in person, there are some very important factors to consider.
All launches are subject to cancellation, rescheduling, or "scrub," at any time!
Playalinda Beach will be closed for this launch attempt.
Port Canaveral has revealed that Jetty Park and Campground remains closed and will not be available for viewing of the Artemis 1 launch, due to ongoing cleanup from Hurricane Nicole.
Viewing at Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex is completely sold out.
Parking on the sides of highways and on causeways is extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited.
Viewing Locations:
So where is good to watch, and feel the SLS rumble in person!
All the beaches that are north of Patrick Space Force Base are all great viewing locations, and along the Indian River in Titusville, which runs parallel to Kennedy Space Center, is also a good option for launch viewing.
Check out this map compiled by Visit Space Coast showing their favorite spots to watch a rocket launch on the Space Coast.
Please keep in mind the considerations noted above when choosing your ideal launch viewing location.
Beachside Viewing
Heading to the beach is a great way to enjoy the outdoors during the launch; however, parking spots on popular beach access points fill up quickly.
Plan to be here early to secure your spot in the lot and on the sand.
Titusville
Here is a complete list of Titusville parks and addresses, along with some suggestions below.
Space View Park
Chain of Lakes Park
Parrish Park
Veterans Memorial Park
Kennedy Point Park
Rotary Riverfront Park
Sand Point Park
Titusville Police want to advise motorists to slow down in launch viewing areas, especially on U.S.#1, State Road 406 along the A. Max Brewer Bridge, and all surrounding areas.
All lanes on the A. Max Brewer Bridge will be closed immediately after launch for approximately 1 hour, allowing for pedestrian traffic to cross over safely
Port Canaveral
A list of public beach accesses in Cape Canaveral is available here.
Lots will remain open until capacity is reached.
For more information, please see Port Canaveral's website.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
For safety reasons, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and Mosquito Lagoon south of the Biolab will be closed.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach has multiple viewing locations along the Indian River.
A list of parking locations in Cocoa Beach can be found here.
Park Viewing
There are several parks throughout the Space Coast perfect for launch viewing.
Plan to arrive early as parking spaces are limited.
Traffic Considerations
Historic spaceflight has always drawn large crowds to the Space Coast, and if you choose to visit the Space Coast to witness the launch of Artemis 1, expect traffic and considerable delays.
Make sure that you have all the essential items you need for an extended trip including important medication, water, food, and gasoline.
Viewing By Boat
Viewing rocket launches from a boat on the Indian River Lagoon or the Atlantic Ocean is a fun and unique way to witness history.
Mariners and pilots can learn about launch hazard areas and restrictions by calling (800) 470-7232.
The United States Coast Guard broadcasts this information on Marine Band Channel 16.
Check boat ramp access status by searching for Brevard County, FL US with the FWC Boat Ramp Status App. It's extremely important to become familiar with and adhere to the Boater Safety and Security Zones in place by the Coast Guard.
Traffic Tips:
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) have issues travellers with some traffic tips leading up to this historic event.
If you live or work in the north, central, and beachside areas, plan accordingly and stay off the roadways if possible to avoid traffic congestion.
If you must travel along these corridors, please plan for extra commute time to work and school.
Consider running errands over the weekend before the launch to avoid traffic.
ALWAYS watch for and yield to pedestrians/bicyclists crossing. There will be heavy foot traffic especially along our beaches.
Obey ALL traffic laws. Do not run red lights, speed, or drive distracted.
Once the launch is completed traffic will be funneled from East on SR 528 to A1A South and then to SR 520.
NASA badging may move west on SR 405/NASA causeway earlier in the day, so beware inbound traffic may not be able to proceed east on SR 405/NASA after US-1, without proper credentials
