SpaceX Launch Today: Historic 100th Rocket Liftoff

Florida's Space Coast Makes History with 100th Rocket Launch

On November 20, 2025, SpaceX achieved a monumental milestone as its Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, marking the 100th orbital launch from Florida's Space Coast this year. The Starlink 6-78 mission, carrying 29 satellites for SpaceX's global internet service, roared into the skies at 10:39 p.m. EST, cementing 2025 as a record-breaking year for space exploration.

Mission Highlights

The launch showcased SpaceX's unmatched efficiency and reusability capabilities. The first-stage booster (B1080) executed its 23rd successful flight, landing precisely on the drone ship 'Just Read the Instructions' in the Atlantic Ocean just eight minutes after liftoff. Meanwhile, the 29 Starlink V2 Mini satellites deployed into orbit approximately 65 minutes after launch, joining a constellation of over 9,000 satellites already providing broadband coverage worldwide.

"This isn't just another launch—it's a testament to the relentless pace of innovation driving Florida's space renaissance," noted mission analysts. The near-perfect weather conditions predicted by Space Force meteorologists ensured a smooth countdown, drawing thousands of spectators to viewing sites along the coast.

SpaceX Dominates Florida's Launch Cadence

SpaceX's unparalleled launch frequency has revolutionized the industry. With 92 of this year's 100 launches, SpaceX accounts for 91% of Florida's orbital missions. This surpasses the previous annual record of 93 launches set in 2024, achieved through rapid turnaround times and partially reusable rockets. United Launch Alliance contributed five launches, while Blue Origin's New Glenn marked its second flight in November.

Until 2020, Florida never exceeded 25 launches annually. The surge is directly attributed to SpaceX's Falcon 9 program, which has dramatically increased accessibility to space for commercial, governmental, and scientific payloads.

Where to Witness the Next Launch

For space enthusiasts eager to catch the next launch, Florida's Space Coast offers prime viewing opportunities. The most spectacular vantage points include:

• Beachfront locations: Playalinda Beach, Jetty Park Pier, and Cocoa Beach Pier offer unobstructed southeast trajectories.
• Riverfront parks: Space View Park and Parrish Park in Titusville provide direct views across the Indian River.
• Urban vantage points
: Max Brewer Bridge and Pineda Causeway offer skyline perspectives.

Launches are often visible as far north as Jacksonville Beach and south as Vero Beach, depending on weather and trajectory. Night launches create spectacular photo opportunities as the rocket's exhaust illuminates the dark sky.

"This launch sequence represents the most active period in Florida's space history," stated FLORIDA TODAY's space team. "We're witnessing a new era of accessibility to space."

What's Next for Space Coast

With the 100th launch milestone achieved, all eyes are on upcoming missions. SpaceX continues its Starlink deployment schedule while preparing for crewed flights. Meanwhile, NASA's Artemis program and United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket development promise further milestones in 2026.

For real-time launch updates and viewing guides, visit floridatoday.com/space, where the USA TODAY Network's Space Team provides live coverage and countdown clocks for all upcoming missions.

Behind the Scenes

The record-breaking cadence wouldn't be possible without cutting-edge technology and streamlined operations. SpaceX's ability to refurbish boosters in days rather than weeks minimizes costs and maximizes launch frequency. Meanwhile, NASA partnerships ensure seamless coordination between commercial and governmental activities at Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

As the Space Coast continues its transformation into a global space hub, 2025 stands as a landmark year proving that space exploration has entered an era of unprecedented accessibility and commercial viability.