SpaceX Starbase in Texas
-
SpaceX Starship fully stacked at Starbase.
Starbase is Kinda Fucking Nuts...
Especially when you really start thinking about it. Visiting it feels a lot like going to the edge of the country and driving right into the middle of a construction zone for the world's largest and most powerful rockets... and that's because that's quite literally it.
Starbase is bustling with activity and the amount of access and how close the public could get to a fully stacked launch pad is surreal to say the least. It's what I imagine visiting the Kennedy Space Center would've been like during the beginning of the Apollo era had the public been able to visit freely and get within 1000ft of the launch pad.
It's probably annoying for SpaceX, but it's currently surrounded by public land. I'm sure that'll inevitably change as the space is constantly evolving. Visiting now is as raw and unfiltered as it ever will be.
If you believe in and are a fan of space exploration, I recommend putting politics aside and making the pilgrimage to Starbase sooner than later.
How to View a Launch and Where to Stay.
There are plenty of places to watch Starship soar, but here's the top 3 that's most accessible and has some of the best views.
Join the Crowd at Isla Blanca »
The most accessible place to watch the launch is probably from Isla Blanca Park in South Padre Island. You can either stay in one of the many hotels within walking distance or you can also just drive there. If driving, you'll want to get there incredibly early 'cause there will definitely be heavy traffic.
Watch in Comfort and Privacy at Margaritaville »
If you want the comfort of a hotel room and watch from your own private balcony, Margaritaville has you covered. The rooms get booked quickly so you'll want to act fast as soon as they announce a launch date. You may also want to budget for an extra night or two incase the launch gets postponed. Tell them you want to watch the launch and they should give you a room high enough to see the pad.
Melt your face off at Rocket Ranch »
One of the closest spots that'll let you feel the full roar of the launch would have to be Rocket Ranch. That's where I viewed and shot this launch from. More pics and info below.
The Rocket Ranch
Rocket Ranch is a special place where space nerds can find other spacer nerds.
The atmosphere, camaraderie, and mix of people there helps make it a pleasurable experience despite having to camp out in a muggy Texas outpost. Couple that with literally being able to feel the roar and rumble of the launch, and you end up with a highly unique stay and viewing experience.
