The SpaceX Falcon 9 Crew-1 launch will mark the beginning of regular astronauts' flights from America to the International Space Station (ISS).
This is an impromptu and loosely organized club event for members interested in viewing this historic launch in person.
We will suggest different means of viewing the launch, but it will be each family's responsibility is to make their arrangements.
One recommended meetup location is the new Titusville Supercharger Station at 3055 Columbia Blvd, Titusville 32780. It is about 12 miles from the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
Viewing Option #1:
Kennedy Space Center
Click here to purchase tickets for viewing at the Kennedy Space Center. Be sure to read the Scrub Policy.
Viewing Option #2:
The Radisson Resort at the Port
The Radisson Resort at the Port, at 8701 Astronaut Boulevard, Cape Canaveral, Florida 32920, has provided us with a discount on overnight stays. If you register for this event, you will receive an automated message providing you with a discount code. It's $104 for standard rooms or $129 for suites on Fridays & Saturdays with the code.
The Launch is visible from the Radisson's parking lot. We can stand socially distanced at the front of the hotel to watch.
The Radisson is 22 miles from the Titusville Supercharger Station.
The Radisson is 18 miles from the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
This photo was taken poolside at the Radisson Resort at the Port during a launch. I don't know which launch complex the rocket was leaving, so I don't know if this launch will have a similar view.
Other Viewing Options:
10 great places to watch a rocket launch per FLORIDA TODAY local news.
Important note: It is not possible for me to evaluate each recommended public viewing location in the FLORIDA TODAY article linked above, but here are some comments regarding the first three suggested locations:
1. Jetty Park is limited to pass holders.
2. Since the launch is from pad 39A, Playalinda Beach is not recommended.
3. Max Brewer Bridge and Parrish Park, Titusville is best for Falcon 9 launches from Launch Complex 39A, but it is not recommended since it is impossible to maintain proper social distancing.
CAUTION: The above photo is of Max Brewer Bridge during the May 27, 2020 scrubbed SpaceX launch. It is impossible to maintain proper social distancing here during a launch.
COVID-19 Considerations:
Due to COVID-19 considerations, we can not plan any indoor group events, and we strongly recommend that you wear face masks and maintain proper social distancing at any informal meetup locations.
Kennedy Space Center Health & Safety Procedures
Radisson Resort at the Port Health & Safety Protocols
Summary:
Depending on the turnout, you may have an opportunity to meet up with other club members at the Titusville Supercharger, the Radisson Resort, the Kennedy Space Center or at a public viewing area, but there will not be any formally organized group events. Each family is responsible for making their own arrangements. Please note that there is no guarantee that this launch will occur as scheduled.