SpaceX’s Falcon 9 is set to launch from Vandenberg SLC-4E during a four-hour window starting at 9:20 p.m. PT on Dec. 13, with an FAA-listed backup day. The 230-foot rocket will carry 27 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit on a southeast trajectory that should be visible from many parts of Arizona. Check local updates for schedule changes, and pick a dark, elevated viewing site for the best chance to see the nighttime launch.
How to See SpaceX’s Nighttime Falcon 9 Launch From Arizona — When & Where to Watch
SpaceX is scheduled to launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California during a late-night window that could be visible across much of Arizona. If you’re willing to stay up, the two-stage Falcon 9 will deliver 27 Starlink satellites to low-Earth orbit; many Arizona vantage points should get a clear view if weather and technical checks cooperate.
Launch Window & Location
The launch window opens at 9:20 p.m. PT on Saturday, Dec. 13, and closes at 1:20 a.m. PT on Sunday, Dec. 14. A Federal Aviation Administration operations advisory notes a backup opportunity the following day if the mission is postponed. The rocket will lift off from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County, California.
What’s Launching
The mission will use SpaceX’s familiar two-stage, 230-foot Falcon 9 to place 27 Starlink internet satellites into low-Earth orbit (roughly 341 miles altitude). Like many Vandenberg launches, the vehicle will fly on a southeast trajectory that increases the chances of the ascent being visible from Arizona.
Where to Watch in Arizona
Night or very early morning conditions improve visibility. Below are recommended viewing spots compiled for Arizona observers — many are popular for stargazing and offer darker skies or elevated viewpoints:
- Dobbins Lookout, South Mountain — 10919 S. Central Ave., Phoenix
- Papago Park — 625 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix
- Fountain Hills — designated a Dark Sky Community (2018)
- Superstition Mountains — about 40 miles from metro Phoenix
- Cave Creek — roughly 30 miles north of Fountain Hills
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport parking garages (popular for plane- and launch-watching)
- Black Canyon City — Yavapai County
- Estrella Mountain Regional Park — 14805 W. Vineyard Ave., Goodyear
- Skyline Regional Park — 2600 N. Watson Road, Buckeye
- White Tank Mountains — 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell
- San Tan Mountain Regional Park — 6533 W. Phillips Road, Queen Creek
- Monument Hill — a 150-foot slope on 115th Avenue
- Casa Grande — roughly halfway between Phoenix and Tucson
- Avondale and Queen Creek suburbs — convenient local vantage points
- Any mountain or regional park in Arizona with clear western–northwestern views
Visibility Tips & Safety
- Check local media or azcentral.com for final launch status — spaceflight schedules change often for weather or technical reasons.
- Bring binoculars or a small telescope for a better view; dress warmly as desert nights can be chilly.
- Obey park rules, close gates, and respect private property and wildlife areas when choosing a viewing spot.
Why This Matters
SpaceX, founded in 2002 and led by CEO Elon Musk, regularly launches Falcon 9 rockets for Starlink satellite deployments and other missions from California and Florida. Starlink — SpaceX’s satellite internet service — has deployed thousands of satellites to provide lower-latency broadband from low-Earth orbit. Beyond commercial services, SpaceX also supports NASA and Department of Defense launches and conducts crewed missions using the Dragon capsule.
Bottom line: If the launch proceeds as planned, Arizonans who head to dark, elevated locations after 9:20 p.m. PT on Dec. 13 have a strong chance of seeing the Falcon 9 streak across the sky. Always confirm the final launch time before you go.
