CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The historic Artemis II launch is just about here, and the weather should cooperate.
As of Wednesday morning, conditions are ‘go’ for liftoff Wednesday evening, as NASA prepares to send four astronauts around the moon for the first time in decades.
The forecast from the 45th Weather Squadron looks favorable, with only spotty clouds near the pad during the launch window and a steady onshore breeze.
If you’re anywhere along the Space Coast and beyond, this will be a show you won’t want to miss, as skies should remain mostly clear to catch a glimpse of history for many in Central Florida.
Who will be able to see Artemis II?
- 10 seconds: Visible along the immediate coast near Titusville and surrounding areas
- 20 seconds: Expands inland toward the I-4 corridor areas like Orlando
- 30 seconds: Much of East Central Florida gets a quick view
- 40 seconds: The rocket becomes visible across a large portion of the state, though smaller in the sky
The farther inland you are, the lower on the horizon it will appear, but still bright enough to spot, especially around sunset.
Who will hear the roar of the rocket?
Unlike SpaceX launches, there is no booster returning with Artemis II. While this means no sonic boom is expected, there will still be a chance to hear it.
Winds will be out of the east, which plays a role in what you hear after liftoff. With that onshore breeze, the roar of the rocket could carry inland up to about 45, reaching areas from the coast back toward the Orlando metro.
That sound typically arrives a few moments after liftoff, so don’t be surprised if you see it first, then hear the rumble shortly after.