Welcome to the live coverage of the SpaceX Falcon Heavy Launch by FLORIDA TODAY’s Space Team. Today, a triple-core SpaceX rocket is set to lift the NOAA weather satellite GOES-U into orbit from Kennedy Space Center’s Pad 39A at 5:26 p.m. EDT.

The launch time was adjusted to accommodate weather conditions, with a 30 percent chance of favorable weather predicted by the Space Force 45th Weather Squadron during the two-hour launch window. Clouds are a primary concern for the launch.

Following liftoff, the boosters will return to the SpaceX landing sites 1 and 2 on the Cape Canaveral Space Force Base shoreline, with double sonic booms expected to be heard throughout the Space Coast.

GOES-U, the latest addition to NOAA’s GOES-R series, is a weather satellite directed by NASA, built by Lockheed Martin and L3Harris, and launched by SpaceX. This satellite aims to enhance storm detection capabilities, provide more warning time for approaching threats, and offer solar observation to alert about potential solar flares.

Space Reporter Rick Neale provided updates on the crowds at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, where spectators eagerly awaited the Falcon Heavy launch. The boosters successfully landed, and Falcon Heavy lifted off at 5:26 p.m., marking an exciting moment for space enthusiasts.

For those unable to witness the launch in person, NASA offered coverage of the SpaceX Falcon Heavy launch. Spectators were advised to secure their viewing spots early to catch this rare rocket launch heading west.

Rick Neale reported on the large crowd gathered at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, where prime viewing tickets had sold out quickly, indicating high interest in the event. Dozens of spectators were already present at the complex, eagerly awaiting the historic launch.