SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch from Florida set for Thursday morning
SpaceX is preparing to launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on May 21, 2026, at 5:26 a.m. local time to deploy Starlink internet satellites. The launch marks the 34th of the year, reflecting a slowed cadence due to preparations for Starship operations, down from a record 109 launches in 2025.
SpaceX will launch a Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Thursday, May 21, 2026, no earlier than 5:26 a.m. The mission will deploy a batch of Starlink internet satellites, continuing SpaceX’s routine launches despite a reduced pace this year. This launch follows a pause since May 1, with SpaceX prioritizing Starship preparations at Cape Canaveral, resulting in only 34 launches so far in 2026—far below last year’s record of 109. The Falcon 9’s first-stage booster will land on the *A Shortfall of Gravitas* drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean, avoiding sonic booms over Brevard County. The launch window extends until 9:26 a.m. if needed. SpaceX has also shifted its *Just Read the Instructions* drone ship to support Starship operations, consolidating Falcon 9 launches to a single Florida pad. This mission reflects SpaceX’s evolving focus, balancing Starlink deployments with Starship development. The company’s Starship program, based in Texas, has drawn resources away from Falcon 9 launches, slowing the usual twice-weekly cadence. Live updates will be available 90 minutes before liftoff at FloridaToday.com/Space.
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