Arizona’s skies are set to light up with not one, but three exciting rocket launches this month, offering stargazers and space enthusiasts a rare opportunity to witness these spectacular events. Whether you’re an avid astronomer or just looking for a unique evening activity, here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming launches, including when, where, and how to watch them from Arizona.
1. SpaceX Falcon 9 Starlink Mission (May 12, 2024)
Launch Time: ~8:30 PM MST
Launch Site: Vandenberg Space Force Base, California
Visibility in Arizona: High
SpaceX continues to expand its Starlink satellite internet constellation, and this month’s launch from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base will be visible across much of Arizona. The Falcon 9 rocket will streak across the southwestern sky, appearing as a bright, fast-moving light.
How to Watch:
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Best Viewing Time: Look 2-5 minutes after launch toward the west-southwest horizon.
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What to Expect: The rocket will look like a bright, steady star moving eastward. If conditions are right, you may also see the first-stage booster separation and the exhaust plume glowing in the sunset-lit sky.
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Tracking the Launch: Use apps like “Space Launch Now” or “Heavens Above” for real-time trajectory updates.
2. ULA Atlas V NROL-70 Mission (May 18, 2024)
Launch Time: ~10:15 AM MST
Launch Site: Cape Canaveral, Florida
Visibility in Arizona: Low (Daytime Launch)
The United Launch Alliance (ULA) will send a classified National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) satellite into orbit aboard an Atlas V rocket. While daytime launches are harder to spot, Arizona residents might still catch a glimpse if the rocket’s exhaust plume is illuminated by the sun.
How to Watch:
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Best Viewing Time: Since it’s a morning launch, look eastward just after liftoff.
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What to Expect: If atmospheric conditions are right, you may see a bright, expanding cloud (known as a “space jellyfish”) as the rocket ascends.
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Live Stream: Since visibility may be limited, check NASA TV or ULA’s YouTube channel for the live broadcast.
3. Firefly Aerospace Alpha Rocket (May 25, 2024)
Launch Time: ~11:00 PM MST
Launch Site: Vandenberg Space Force Base, California
Visibility in Arizona: Excellent
Firefly Aerospace’s Alpha rocket is scheduled to carry a small payload into orbit, and this nighttime launch promises to be one of the most visible events for Arizona skywatchers.
How to Watch:
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Best Viewing Time: Look westward shortly after launch.
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What to Expect: A bright, fast-moving object with a possible vapor trail visible under clear skies.
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Photography Tip: Use a tripod and long-exposure settings to capture the rocket’s path.
Best Tips for Watching Rocket Launches in Arizona
To make the most of these celestial events, follow these expert tips:
1. Find a Dark, Open Location
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Light pollution can obscure the view, so head to areas like:
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Sedona (low light pollution)
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Flagstaff (home to Lowell Observatory)
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Tucson’s outskirts (away from city lights)
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2. Check Weather Conditions
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Clear skies are essential. Use apps like Clear Outside or AccuWeather to monitor cloud cover.
3. Use Binoculars or a Telescope (Optional)
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While rockets are visible to the naked eye, binoculars can enhance the view of booster separation or exhaust plumes.
4. Follow Real-Time Updates
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Launch schedules can change last minute. Follow:
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SpaceX (@SpaceX) on X (Twitter)
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NASA’s launch blog
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ULA’s official updates
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Why Are These Launches Important?
Beyond the visual spectacle, these missions play a crucial role in:
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Expanding global internet coverage (Starlink)
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National security and reconnaissance (NROL-70)
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Advancing private spaceflight (Firefly Aerospace)
Final Thoughts
With three back-to-back rocket launches visible from Arizona this May, there’s never been a better time to look up and witness the marvels of modern spaceflight. Whether you catch the fiery glow of a SpaceX Falcon 9 or the stealthy ascent of a ULA Atlas V, each launch offers a glimpse into humanity’s expanding reach into the cosmos.
