In a few hours from now, the most powerful rocket currently in operation will attempt its maiden launch from the NASA Kennedy Space Centre in Cape Canaveral!
You can follow the live stream on YouTube in the video below, or on SpaceX's Facebook page here. The current launch time is scheduled for 15:45 ET, and 21:45 GMT+1 central European time (Updated following launch delays due to heavy winds, hopefully, the launch will still happen before the launch-window closes). I will certainly be glued to the screen myself together with some friends and colleagues shortly after work and have been looking forward to this for months!
SpaceX's live stream on YouTub for the Falcon Heavy launch
Yesterday, SpaceX added the following animation video, illustrating the highly anticipated launch. A fun fact is that the payload used for this test launch will be Elon Musk's own Tesla Roadster car!
SpaceX's illustration video of today's Falcon Heavy launch
Musk also did a short interview with a CNN representative at the Cape yesterday. As mentioned by the reporter, all hotels in the area have been sold out and the area surrounding the Cape is expected to be completely packed. In the interview, Elon also highlights what difference the Falcon Heavy can make for the global space sector, both private and public.
Elon Musk talks to a CNN reporter at Cape Canaveral, Florida, prior to the Falcon Heavy launch
I just wanted to share this with you who might be interested in seeing it live. Whether it succeeds or fails, this will be a spectacular view and a significant event for global space activities. At this point, there's little else to do than to wish the SpaceX and NASA KSC team good luck and cross all fingers.
I'll certainly be back with a more detailed post following a potential success or failure.
Ad astra Falcon Heavy!