Why commercial rockets can't be launched during daytime in US
What's the story
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced a restriction on all US commercial rocket launches to nighttime hours, starting tomorrow. They can take place from 10:00pm to 6:00am (EST). The move is aimed at mitigating airspace risks due to airport staffing shortages amid the ongoing government shutdown. The curfew mainly affects commercial launches from Florida's Space Coast and California's Vandenberg, where essential staff are still working without pay.
Schedule adjustments
Major schedule changes for Vandenberg missions
Most California launches this year have been during the day, necessitating major schedule changes for Vandenberg missions. SpaceX, which has already launched more than 140 Starlink missions in 2025, will have to move many Starlink missions into the late-night slots. Other companies like United Launch Alliance are also racing against time to make these adjustments.
Mission delays
Impact on upcoming critical missions
NASA's ESCAPADE Mars mission is scheduled for a November 9 afternoon launch. However, if it slips even a day, the new rules will force an indefinite postponement. United Launch Alliance's ViaSat-3 F2 satellite launch is also running against time after recent delays. The new restrictions shall require SpaceX to adjust its Starlink launch schedule from Florida and California.