Crowds at Isla Blanca Park enjoy SpaceX launch

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas (ValleyCentral) — SpaceX celebrated its anniversary Thursday with a historic launch. The third Starship test flight blasted off from Boca Chica. It was an early morning for the thousands who came out to see the show at Isla Blanca Park.

People came from across the county and the Rio Grande Valley to watch the rocket take off. Some made their way to the park for their second, and even third launch. While others were attending their first.

For those who've already seen a launch, they can't wait to see another one. “This is my second time to see the launch," said Brownsville resident DeeDee Cavazos. “The first time, I was kind of hesitant to come, and a friend of mine dragged me out to come, and we woke up early. I thought, wow, that was pretty interesting to see and another friend wanted to come, so I said ok, let’s go," Cavazos continued.

The gates to Isla Blanca Park opened just before 3 a.m. Thursday, and onlookers made their way inside. The park quickly filled up with people taking their places on the jetties and dunes. Launchgoers said it was much easier to get into the park this time around. The park opened earlier than it had for past launches, and everyone got a chance to get a good seat.

The Shaw family said it took them two and a half days to drive from Iowa, and that they made the trip specifically to watch the launch. “You can see it on TV, but to experience it is… you have to experience it. It’s like, on the bucket list. It should be on everybody’s bucket list," said Todd Shaw.

The launch was pushed back a few times but the delays weren't enough to dampen the crowd's festive mood. “Awesome atmosphere," said Dennis Johnson.

Johnson and his wife, Faith, are winter Texans who stay in Brownsville four months out of the year. "Yeah, the camaraderie with other people that have the same interest," said Dennis.

The sense of anticipation and excitement was everywhere as the crowd waited for Starship to take flight. Cavazaos said she liked seeing the community sharing in this experience. “I really enjoy just seeing the community out. I loved seeing all the kids waiting to see what was going to happen. It was just fun to see them. The look on their faces, they were just so excited. Everybody was excited.”