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SpaceX is targeting Friday night to launch another batch of Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit, continuing a string of near-weekly missions from California. However, despite their growing frequency, the wonder of a launch has not been lost on Southern Californians as the rockets’ trajectories continue to dazzle our night sky.
The aerospace company is targeting a launch window between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. for a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 24 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base in northern Santa Barbara County.
The mission will mark the 35th flight of the Falcon 9 first-stage booster. After separating from the upper stage, the booster is expected to land on the drone ship Of Course I Still Love You in the Pacific Ocean. SpaceX also says some residents in Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties could hear one or more sonic booms following liftoff.
Whether you’re hoping to catch the glowing “space jellyfish” effect shortly after sunset or simply watch the rocket arc across the night sky, here are a few public places around Southern California that offer good viewing opportunities, weather permitting.
A Falcon 9 rocket is seen carrying 24 satellites into low-Earth orbit. August 2025. (SpaceX)
Los Angeles County
- Point Dume State Beach, Malibu
- One of the closest public beaches to the launch path, Point Dume offers wide-open views over the Pacific. Keep in mind that the state beach’s day-use parking lot closes at sunset, so arrive early or check parking restrictions if the launch is delayed.
- Santa Monica Beach
- With an unobstructed view toward the northwest over the ocean, Santa Monica Beach is an easy option for Westside residents and remains accessible into the evening.
- Signal Hill Park, Long Beach
- This elevated park offers panoramic views across the Los Angeles Basin, making it a popular launch-watching spot. Note that the park closes at 10 p.m., so it may not be ideal if the launch slips toward the end of the window.
- Rocky Peak Park, Simi Valley
- If you don’t mind a short hike, Rocky Peak provides high-elevation views with relatively little light pollution.
Orange County
- Inspiration Point, Corona del Mar
- The bluff-top overlook provides sweeping ocean views and an excellent vantage point to watch the rocket climb after liftoff.
- Heisler Park, Laguna Beach
- The cliffside park’s paved pathways and west-facing coastline make it another favorite for rocket watchers.
- San Clemente Pier
- For those in south Orange County, the pier and surrounding beachfront offer a clear view over the Pacific.
Inland Empire
- Turnbull Canyon, Whittier
- Although technically just outside the Inland Empire, this elevated overlook is a convenient option for residents in eastern Los Angeles County and western San Bernardino County.
- Rim of the World Highway scenic pullouts
- Several overlooks along Highway 18 provide high-elevation views above much of the basin, helping clear the surrounding mountain ranges.
Tips before you go
- Face west to northwest shortly before launch.
- If liftoff occurs near the beginning of the window, just after sunset, you may see the colorful “space jellyfish” effect as sunlight illuminates the rocket’s exhaust high in the atmosphere.
- Launch times can change due to weather or technical issues, so check SpaceX’s live countdown before heading out.
- Be mindful of park closing times and only watch from public areas where parking is permitted.
For a livestream of tonight’s launch hosted by SpaceX, click here.
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