Most of the public attending today's launch watched from South Padre Island, which is about five miles across the water from the launch site.
But a group of die-hard fans came a little closer to see the rocket, which lifted off from a launch pad on the south Texas coast Thursday morning.
They met at a place called Rocket Ranch, which was created for SpaceX superfans.
The campsite, which is just 20 minutes from the launch pad near Boca Chica Beach, is frequented by fans who follow every Starship development with fervent enthusiasm.
Anthony Gomez, managing partner of the ranch, is the ringleader of the festivities at Rocket Ranch. Visitors to the site take buses that take them from a campsite to a viewing site called “The Outpost.” It is located just 3.8 miles from the launch pad.
The viewing site is so close to the platform that customers had to sign waivers.
“I voluntarily assume all risks associated with viewing rocket launches on Rocket Ranch property, including the risk of physical and emotional harm,” the waiver says.
Reached by text Thursday morning before launch, Gomez said, “The pressure is starting to build as the countdown clock ticks toward T-0.”
“The crowd gives off a quiet energy,” he added. “People are starting to set up their cameras and emotionally prepare for the moment we've all been waiting for for months.”
In a follow-up text message after the launch, CNN asked Gomez how he and his guests were feeling.
“Better,” he joked, “now that it's over.”
