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Rocket launch viewing at KSC

Los Angeles
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1,289 posts
157 reviews
86 helpful votes
Rocket launch viewing at KSC
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Got tickets to rocket launch viewing at KSC. Keeping our fingers crossed that it will go as scheduled. Any tips for the process/experience of the viewing at KSC is much appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Cocoa Beach, Florida
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for Cocoa Beach
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34 reviews
195 helpful votes
1. Re: Rocket launch viewing at KSC
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The answer depends somewhat on what is being launched and where you are watching from. Because you mention tickets, I'm assuming that you are watching from the bleachers next to the Apollo/Saturn Center, not just from the Visitors' Center. The latter does not require any additional ticket other than the usual daily admission.

Be aware that getting to the Saturn Center requires using a KSC bus from the Visitors' Center, so be sure to check when they start and stop running, as there is no alternative.

For a SpaceX launch, the launch view from the bleachers is good -- just across the water. If the booster is attempting to return to KSC, the view of the landing site isn't as good as some others. It usually takes only about 8-10 minutes for the booster to return, so there is no chance to go elsewhere. If the booster is going to land on the barge, then it won't be visible.

Also, be aware that any launch is subject to being scrubbed, occasionally with less than a minute to go, as final checks are made. When scrubbed just before launch, there is no refund, although some vouchers will be offered. Mostly, scrubs only involve a delay of about 24 hours so weather can improve. But, some mechanical issues can involve longer delays -- days or (rarely) weeks. Again, check the cancellation policy to maximize any refund, because it somewhat depends on the time it is scrubbed.

Seeing a launch, especially from a vantage point like the Saturn Center, will be an great experience. Enjoy.

Los Angeles
Level Contributor
1,289 posts
157 reviews
86 helpful votes
2. Re: Rocket launch viewing at KSC
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Thanks PhotoTravels for your very detailed response.

Yes, we purchased additional tickets to view the launch at Apollo/Saturn Center. I read the KSC's policy on a scrubbed launch before buying the tickets. There is a risk (for a family of 4 it's $80 in addition to regular admission) but able to view a rocket launch is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience. Hopefully it will launch as scheduled.

Los Angeles
Level Contributor
1,289 posts
157 reviews
86 helpful votes
3. Re: Rocket launch viewing at KSC
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It looks like there might be a storm system passing through on 6/1....

4. Re: Rocket launch viewing at KSC

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