Starbase Watch · September 28, 2026 · Breaking
Liftoff from Pad 2 shortly before 7:50 a.m., orbital insertion at 8:15, and contact with all 26 satellites by 8:57. SpaceX plans to deorbit it to the Pacific after 3 hours in orbit.
In orbit, 8:15 AM CT
Photo: NASA
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Every launch pulls thousands of visitors into Cameron County, and most of them find out too late that the beach and highway close, or that the best views aren't where they parked. Viewing spots, closure calendars, timing, and what to bring.
Launch viewing guide →Hotels in Brownsville, beachfront on South Padre Island, and RV sites minutes from the launch corridor. What each option is good for, and how launch weeks change the math.
Lodging guide →The overwhelming majority of people working at Starbase have to find their own housing. If that's you, or you're coming for the port, the LNG projects, or the growth itself, start with the honest version of the housing market.
Relocation guide →Starbase Watch
First orbital insertion at 8:15 a.m., payload deployed by 8:54, contact with all 26 satellites by 8:57. SpaceX plans to deorbit it to the Pacific after 3 hours in orbit.
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Every pre-launch box is checked and re-checked at the source. Window 7:15 to 8:30 AM, closures 4:00 to 10:00, webcast about 30 minutes before liftoff, and five ranked viewing spots in the guide.
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The last regulatory gate is clear, pinned to the FAA's own register. Monday's attempt now comes down to weather and hardware, and the forecast is mostly sunny and near 80 at the window.
Read the item →Housing help
Housing inquiries on this site are handled by Schrank Property Management, our own operation. Moving in for Starbase, the port, or the LNG projects? Tell us what you need and when you land (long-term rental, monthly RV site, or not sure yet) and a human replies with real availability.