Launch Viewing
Witnessing a rocket launch is a jaw-dropping experience you won’t soon forget. The anticipation builds as the countdown ends with a flash of fire. The rocket engines ignite, followed by a roar that rattles the landscape.
How do you watch a rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex? Launch viewing opportunities are determined by the launch window, launch pad, visitor complex operations, Space Force Range Safety and NASA approval, and/or anticipated public interest.
The visitor complex may offer the following types of launch viewing opportunities depending on the launch:
- Included with admission – viewing locations are available with your admission ticket (including annual passes).
- Launch Transportation Tickets (LTTs) – sold in addition to admission and cover transportation to viewing locations through NASA’s gates.
- Rocket Launch Packages – includes admission, a return visit in the event of a scrub, and other special perks.
Typically, viewing is included with admission if the launch window is within visitor complex and bus tour operating hours. LTTs are sold if the launch window is significantly outside operating hours and/or there is increased public interest. LTTs are purchased in addition to admission.
For crewed or milestone launches, like Artemis missions, the visitor complex offers launch viewing packages. These packages include admission, a return visit in case of a scrub, and other commemorative perks. These packages are sold as early as possible and may be for a launch that occurs in the middle of the night. On launch days, when packages are offered, other forms of admission such as annual passes may not be valid.
Milestone Launches
Launch Viewing FAQs
What is typically included with my ticket on launch days?
What is typically included with my ticket on launch days?
Rocket launch viewing from the visitor complex will, at minimum, include bleacher seating (first come, first served), space expert live commentary, access to visitor complex attractions and exhibits, and an unparalleled view of the rocket either leaving the launch pad or once it clears the tree line. Please check the specific launch’s event calendar listing for what is included with Launch Transportation Tickets or launch viewing packages.
Please note that purchasing a launch viewing opportunity does not guarantee the launch will occur. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is not responsible for the launch’s success but we will update our guests as soon as we hear information about the launch’s progress.
Why don’t I see a particular launch date on the website?
Why don’t I see a particular launch date on the website?
The visitor complex event calendar only includes official, publicly announced launch dates or timeframes. We do not want you to plan your visit based on a rumor. Official launch dates are confirmed by NASA, the United States Space Force, or commercial partners involved in the mission, such as SpaceX or United Launch Alliance (ULA).
When will I see what launch viewing opportunities are available ahead of a launch?
When will I see what launch viewing opportunities are available ahead of a launch?
Once launch dates are publicly confirmed, the visitor complex announces launch viewing options for guests and can be found on the Events Calendar. For larger-scale launches, such as crewed missions, the visitor complex may go on sale with launch viewing packages before a date or time is announced. If you purchase a package for a mission that does not have a confirmed date or time, you plan to watch the launch at any date or time.
How can I purchase tickets?
How can I purchase tickets?
When available, Launch Transportation Tickets or launch viewing packages may be purchased online or by calling the reservation department. Admission may be purchased at any time. We recommend you visit the Events Calendar and the specific launch event page for all details before purchasing.
How do I find out about launch viewing opportunities?
How do I find out about launch viewing opportunities?
Be in the know when launch viewing opportunities are announced through the following:
- Sign up for email notifications about events at the visitor complex, including launch viewing opportunities.
- Follow along on X and Facebook for launch viewing opportunities and ticket sales updates.
- Check the visitor complex events calendar for the launch schedule and viewing opportunities.
Sign Up for Launch Alerts
Receive launch alerts straight to your inbox! Subscribe to our emails to learn when the visitor complex offers rocket launch viewing. Remember, we only share official, publicly-announced launch information, and the dates and times are always subject to change with little notice.