Possible final launch of 2025 gathers stargazers at Isla Blanca Park

ISLA BLANCA PARK, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Stargazers from around the world made their way to Isla Blanca Park for the highly anticipated 11th test launch, including one SpaceX enthusiast who traveled all the way from Australia.

“It was incredible. Yeah, all of it,” said Stephen Coxon, visiting from Australia. “It’s just the sound, the shockwaves through your body when it’s taking off, and, you know, the conditions are epic. I didn’t realize that I was going to see the separation up the top and for it to come back down.”

Coxon flew in to witness what many believe could be the final launch of 2025. Others, like Brian Klamschlies from Pennsylvania, are no strangers to the spectacle, as he has witnessed eight of the eleven launches.

“The technology is so incredible, and being here a number of times to see how much it’s changed and all the development they have. Overwhelmed,” Klamschlies said. “See, still gives me goosebumps. Yeah, it’s amazing.”

For some, the experience was emotional. For others, it was filled with excitement about the future.

“It just gives me a lot of hope and optimism about what we can do together when we work together,” said Kara Libick, a Fort Worth resident. “I’m excited to see all of the scientific progress in my lifetime and my son’s lifetime.”

Chris Robinson of Brownsville shared a similar passion.

“I just love aerospace, and what they’re doing over there to me is amazing—totally amazing—at the speed at which they’re doing it,” Robinson said.

While this could be the last launch of the year, many believe it will not be the last time they visit the Rio Grande Valley. Supporters say the road to Mars begins right here in South Texas.

“I would definitely come back with my family next time, for sure,” Coxon added. “It’s a long way, though. Sixteen hours to Dallas and then trying to get down here yesterday was a bit of a hassle, but we made it.”

Others, like Neil Andrew from Horseshoe Bay, Texas, believe SpaceX is on the right path.

“I think man can do what man strives hard to do, and Elon Musk seems to be striving hard to do that,” said Andrew. “He’s done everything he said he was going to do. So I believe that eventually they can do it. I won’t be around long enough to see it, I don’t think, but it’ll happen.”

Some even predict the next major milestone is just around the corner.

“We have a window that we can only go so every few years,” said Janna Schmidt of Hill County. “So I guess I’m going to throw in and say 2026, we try to maybe send that first ship—just give it a try.”