Unmanned (Expendable) Rocket Launches

The Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) is responsible for unmanned or expendable rocket launches. The type of rocket determines which launch complex will be used.

In general these launch complexes are:

Complex 17 A/B - Delta 2
Complex 36 A/B - Under renovation
Complex 37 - Delta IV
Complex 40 - Titan
Complex 41 - Atlas V

Viewing a launch from CCAFS is much different than a Space Shuttle launch. The crowd size is significantly smaller, so you rarely have trouble finding a spot to watch from. But finding the "right" spot can be tricky. Depending on the launch complex used, were you watch from will determine how close you can get. In some cases it makes a big difference!

Here is a guide to some of the more popular areas to watch launches of unmanned, or expendable, rockets. The same area map is used from the Space Shuttle page. Jetty Park is usually the only place you will have to pay an entrance fee and can be crowed. Again, obey any No Parking or No Trespassing signs.

Area Map

	1 - East end of SR 402 at Parrish Park. Not recommended. It is the farthest point from any of the launch complexes at CCAFS. The closest is Complex 41 at 13 miles. The most distant is Complex 17 at 18 miles
	2 - Space View Park area. Located at the East end of Broad St. Not bad, but you can be closer along US 1 in south Titusville. Complex 41 is approximately 13.5 miles away and Complex 17 is 18.5 miles
	3 - Private vacant property along the Indian River on US 1. Here and Kennedy Point Park offer the closest views in the Titusville area. Complex 41 is 13 miles away and Complex 17 is just over 16 miles. For the most part there is an unobstructed view across the Indian River.
	4 - Kennedy Point Park. Located between the Kennedy Point Yacht Club and the Holiday Inn. See number 3.
	5 - Area of the Astronauts Hall of Fame and former Space Camp. Located at NASA Cswy and Vectorspace Blvd. Not recommended.
	6 - Jetty Park. Located in Port Canaveral. The closest you will get without being on CCAFS or KSC property. Complex 17 is the closest at about 3.5 miles! The farthest away is Complex 41,located at the north end of CCAFS, at 12 miles. Entrance into Jetty Park requires a fee. Parking here often fills to capacity.

Tips on Expendable Rocket Launches

Know which Launch Complex is being used. This is very helpful when planning to take pictures or video of the launch.
If making hotel reservations, plan an extra day if possible. 24 hour launch delays are common due to minor problems or weather. Major problems can delay a launch 48 hours or longer. Always check with your hotel for information on rates and reservation / cancellation policies.

Boaters should monitor Marine Ch-16 (156.800) and Ch-22A (157.100) for information on Launch Hazard Areas.
Aircraft should check local NOTAM's for any activation of Temporary Flight Restrictions.

Keeping Informed

This is more difficult than during a Shuttle launch as there is usually less media coverage.

Local TV stations MAY provide updates and launch coverage depending on the time of the launch. Look for WESH 2, WKMG 6, WFTV 9, WOFL 35. Others are available on cable. Remember, you can receive the audio from TV 6 on 87.7 on your FM car radio.
Local AM radio station WMEL .920 usually provides coverage of launches.
Amateur radio repeater on 146.940 has provided a relay of NASA TV audio in the past.
Check the Links page for scanner related information.