Night owls and space enthusiasts along Florida's Space Coast have a reason to set their alarms early Thursday. SpaceX is scheduled to launch the classified NROL-95 mission for the National Reconnaissance Office no earlier than 3:09 a.m. on July 30, lifting off from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
The Falcon 9 will head out on a northeast trajectory after liftoff, meaning residents north of the Cape may catch a good look at the rocket climbing into the night sky, weather permitting. Those closer to the launch site could get an even more dramatic show.
About eight minutes after liftoff, the rocket's first-stage booster is set to return and land at Cape Canaveral Landing Zone 2 — and that return comes with a catch. The booster's engine ignition on the way down is expected to produce a sonic boom, so don't be startled if you hear a loud bang in the overnight hours.
Viewing conditions will play a role in how much of the show is visible, so keep an eye on local weather before heading outside to watch. The launch window opens in the early morning hours, so plan accordingly if you want to catch it live.
This story and live updates are courtesy of Brooke Edwards at Florida Today.
