Viewing guides · SLS
Where to Watch an SLS Launch in Florida
NASA's Space Launch System, the Artemis moon rocket, flies from Launch Complex 39B at Kennedy Space Center.
Next SLS launch
June 2027, date to be announced · Launch Complex 39B
Where it launches from
Upcoming SLS launches are scheduled from Launch Complex 39B.
Where to stand
Public spots open for a launch from Launch Complex 39B, in my own words.
Playalinda Beach
This is about as far as you can go on Playalinda Beach for launch viewing. Some tips: - Beach opening hours do not adjust for a launch. If a launch gets postponed to be after park closing hours, you will be forced to leave. - Playalinda has closed for launches in the past, but recently it has remained open. - This is my personal favorite public launch viewing spot! Even if a launch scrubs, you still get a nice beach day. - From this spot, you may not be able to see (all of) the rocket ahead of launch, but it will be visible within 5 seconds of liftoff! - The view in this picture is a launch from Pad 40. If the launch is from 39-A, you'll be twice as close!
Playalinda Beach - Elevated Boardwalk
In each of the parking complexes, you will have to take an elevated boardwalk to get to the beach. Many people choose to use this boardwalk platform as a way to see the entire rocket on the launchpad prior to launch! If that is a priority, this may be your spot!
Jetty Park Pier
A fixed concrete pier at Jetty Park, one of the closest locations south of the launch pads. This is a great spot when optimizing for booster landings. Admissions can be tricky, so make sure to check latest ticketing information from their official website.
Max Brewer Bridge
A nice elevated view to be able to see most of the launch pads. During major launches, the entire bridge can be shut down to allow pedestrian traffic.
Cherie Down Park
This spot generally has decent parking and can be a good alternative to Jetty Park. In reality, this marker represents the fact that any spot up and down this stretch of beach is a great view, especially for booster landings.
Space View Park
Nice public park on the water with good views!
Rotary Riverfront Park
Great small park with palm trees, views of pretty much all pads, and some parking spots. It also has a nice pier that runs out into the water. I've only shot here for one launch and it was off of pad 41. For that pad, only the top portion of the rocket was visible prior to launch. 39-B appeared to be a completely clear view.
SR-50 Boat Ramp
A nice view if you are coming from Orlando and don't feel like driving all the way to the coast and getting stuck in launch traffic. Needs to be a clear day.
On the schedule
More viewing guides
- Falcon Heavy
- Falcon 9
- Starship
- New Glenn
- Vulcan
- Crewed launches
- Playalinda Beach
- Jetty Park
- Titusville
- Night launches
- Sonic booms
See every viewing spot on the map
The map shows each spot against the launch pads, with a live countdown for the next launch. The app adds alerts when a launch moves.