SpaceX SN 9 – Destination Mars!

In order to take a break from all of the drama of 2020 we decided to spend a month inTexas. We were happy to arrive in south Texas to enjoy some winter warmth. There was a surprise attraction there waiting for us – the launch of the SpaceX SN 9 rocket.

The rocket was launched from the SpaceX Launch Facility at Boca Chica Beach, Texas. We watched from the safety of the southern tip of South Padre Island at Isla Blanca Park. They made several attempts to launch before they succeeded. We made 5 trips (an hour and a half each way) before we got to see the launch.

We were able to approach the launch site in the days prior to the launch. As we approached, we passed the assembly building for holding rockets to be used in the future.

We approach wondering just how close we can get.

There are times between the many launch attempts here that you can drive very close to the launch pad.

Reminds me of a 1950 sci-fi movie.

On the day of the launch the weather was finally perfect.

A few folks joined us on the rocks to our left. There are many more spectators beyond this and out of sight.

Looking the other way.

These folks fishing don’t seem to be concerned with safety.

Various boats and ships threatened to block our view of the launch. Transportation technology has changed over the years.

Seconds after liftoff the rocket ascends mixed in with the occasional bird in flight.

The landing was a bit rough and loud.

By the way, there are plenty of places on the web to see the launches, but in person is very different.

Here’s one of our favorite photos of the Mars landscape, the ultimate destination of this type of rocket.

Until next time.