PHOENIX, Ariz. — SpaceX is scheduled to launch another Falcon 9 rocket this weekend, and while the liftoff will happen along California’s coast, early risers in Arizona could be in for a stunning sky show—weather permitting.
Falcon 9 to Launch 26 Starlink Satellites From California
The commercial spaceflight company, founded by Elon Musk, is targeting Saturday, June 15, for its next launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County, California. According to an operations plan advisory from the Federal Aviation Administration, a four-hour launch window opens at 6:34 a.m. PT (9:34 a.m. ET). A backup opportunity is available for Sunday, June 16.
This mission will see a 230-foot-tall two-stage Falcon 9 rocket deploy 26 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit—part of SpaceX’s ongoing effort to expand its global internet network.
After launch, the rocket’s first-stage booster will attempt a landing on SpaceX’s Pacific drone ship, “Of Course I Still Love You,” allowing it to be reused in future missions.
Where and When Can Arizonans Watch?
Thanks to Arizona’s proximity to the California coast, residents across much of the state—particularly those up before sunrise—may be able to catch the Falcon 9 as it streaks across the early morning sky. Ideal viewing conditions are likely before full daylight, especially if the skies are clear.
Here are some of the best spots in Arizona to potentially view the rocket launch:
- Dobbins Lookout, South Mountain, Phoenix
- Papago Park, Phoenix
- Fountain Hills, a designated Dark Sky Community
- Superstition Mountains, east of Phoenix
- Cave Creek, north of the Valley
- Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (from the parking decks)
- Black Canyon City, Yavapai County
- Estrella Mountain Regional Park, Goodyear
- Skyline Regional Park, Buckeye
- White Tank Mountains, Waddell
- San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Queen Creek
- Monument Hill, Avondale
For those who prefer to watch from home, SpaceX will livestream the launch on its official website and on its X (formerly Twitter) account approximately five minutes before liftoff.
What Is Starlink and Why It Matters
This mission is part of SpaceX’s continuing expansion of Starlink, a rapidly growing satellite internet network now comprising more than 6,700 satellites in low-Earth orbit (roughly 341 miles above Earth). Unlike traditional satellite internet, which relies on one or two large satellites in geostationary orbit, Starlink’s low-orbit network allows for faster speeds and lower latency—making it better for streaming, video calls, and online gaming.
Starlink is currently serving customers across the U.S. and in dozens of other countries, with rural and underserved regions seeing the most benefit.
About SpaceX
Founded in 2002 by Elon Musk, SpaceX is headquartered at Starbase, located near the U.S.-Mexico border in South Texas. The company has revolutionized spaceflight with its reusable rocket systems and private space missions, including commercial crewed flights aboard the Dragon capsule.
In addition to Starlink launches, SpaceX is actively developing its 400-foot Starship megarocket, which the company hopes will one day carry astronauts to the Moon and Mars.
Weather and Launch Delays Possible
As with all rocket launches, the schedule is subject to change. SpaceX and the U.S. Space Force have warned that launches may be scrubbed or delayed due to high winds, technical issues, or poor visibility. Arizonans hoping to catch the view are advised to check for real-time updates from SpaceX before heading out.
