SpaceX Plans Post‑Midnight Falcon 9 Launch — How and Where to See It From Arizona

SpaceX is scheduled to launch a Falcon 9 rocket shortly after midnight from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Southern California — an event that should be visible across large parts of Arizona if the weather cooperates.

When: The company has targeted Wednesday, Dec. 10, with a four‑hour launch window opening at 12:54 a.m. Pacific Time. A Federal Aviation Administration operations advisory lists a backup opportunity the following day if weather or technical issues force a postponement.

Where: Liftoff is planned from Space Launch Complex 4E at Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County. The Falcon 9 is expected to fly a southeast trajectory, which increases the chance that observers in Arizona will see the illuminated rocket and, after deployment, a train of reflective Starlink satellites.

Mission And Vehicle Details

SpaceX will fly its two‑stage, 230‑foot Falcon 9 to deliver 27 Starlink internet satellites into low‑Earth orbit. Starlink satellites operate in much lower orbits (roughly 341 miles) than traditional geostationary systems, which reduces latency and improves performance for streaming, gaming and video calls. SpaceX currently operates a global Starlink constellation of more than 8,700 satellites.

Where To Watch From Arizona

Because the launch is scheduled after midnight, the rocket’s bright plume and the reflective satellites are often easier to spot. The Arizona Republic compiled viewing suggestions across the Phoenix area and beyond; notable spots include:

• Dobbins Lookout, South Mountain — 10919 S. Central Ave., Phoenix
• Papago Park — 625 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix
• Fountain Hills — a designated Dark Sky Community
• Superstition Mountains — about 40 miles east of metro Phoenix
• Cave Creek — roughly 30 miles north of Fountain Hills
• Estrella Mountain Regional Park — Goodyear
• Skyline Regional Park — Buckeye
• White Tank Mountains — Waddell
• San Tan Mountain Regional Park — Queen Creek
• Casa Grande — midway between Phoenix and Tucson

Other good general options are any mountain lookout or dark‑sky area away from city lights. Bring warm clothing, headlamps with red filters and arrive early to secure a safe viewing spot.

About SpaceX And Starlink

SpaceX was founded by Elon Musk in 2002 and is headquartered at Starbase in South Texas. The company conducts frequent Falcon 9 launches from California and Florida to deliver Starlink satellites and other payloads, and it also flies crewed missions with the Dragon capsule. SpaceX holds major contracts with NASA and the Department of Defense for a variety of launch services.

Plan Ahead: Launch schedules often change for weather or technical reasons. Observers should check azcentral.com, the Arizona Republic, or SpaceX’s official channels for updates before heading out.

Reporting: Eric Lagatta, Space Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network.