Maine Radio Host Witnesses History at Artemis II Launch From Cocoa Beach

Growing up, I would visit my grandparents on Florida’s Space Coast and sometimes see launches from the Cape Canaveral side of Cocoa Beach. Rocket launches were always exciting, but Artemis II felt different. This was history in the making, and I am so glad I got to witness it firsthand with my mom and sister from the beach about 10 miles away from Kennedy Space Center.

The morning of the launch did not look promising. It was rainy, windy, and cloudy for most of the day. After several launch cancellations earlier in the week, people were nervous that the moon mission would be postponed again, even though the astronauts were already quarantining and preparing for launch.

Hundreds of thousands of people traveled to the area, including Titusville, another popular viewing spot. Traffic was unbelievable, and people headed to the beach early with chairs and blankets to claim their spots.

By around 5 p.m., an hour before launch, the beach was completely packed. Thousands of people stood with their friends, families, and cameras ready. Many had come from other states and all across Florida just to experience Artemis II.

After a 10-minute delay, the rocket finally lifted off. It rose into the sky incredibly fast, leaving behind a huge cloud of smoke. The higher it climbed, the louder the rumble became. Everyone around us started cheering as Artemis II successfully disappeared into the sky. It was an unforgettable moment and one I will always remember.