Ever since Space X’s drone rocket recovery ship, Just Read the Instructions, began to be placed in the Bahamas, Puerto Rico and the Eastern Caribbean have been treated to Falcon 9 rocket launches. With this change, the trajectory of the Falcon 9 rockets launched from Florida is now visible coming out of the northwest horizon at about 330 degrees. If there are clouds you’ll be able to detect the rocket because they will initially be illuminated from below before the actual rocket. The ship will usually become visible about 7 to 10 minutes after launch time. Check the links included here for live launch videos to confirm liftoff.
Falcon 9 rocket launches from Florida
The launch schedule works on windows, or periods of time when the weather is favorable. Unfavorable weather can include any type of precipitation and high ground winds (over 30 mph). Lightning within 10 miles will also cause a delay or cancelation. Winds high up in the atmosphere are also a factor particularly when the rocket is traveling at supersonic speeds. Excessive clouds also cause problems.
The best way to watch the flights is to have a clear unobstructed view towards the northwest and west as the rocket will be traveling in that direction.
More spacecraft sightings
The International Space Station is also visible from Puerto Rico during its orbits. Sightings will occur within a few hours before or after sunrise or sunset. This is the optimum viewing period as the sun reflects off the space station and contrasts against the darker sky. What you’ll see is a fast moving, bright object that will fade away as it moves into the shadow of the Earth.
Falcon 9 launch information:
https://www.rocketlaunch.live/?filter=spacex
International Space Station orbits over Puerto Rico:
