Good morning, Melbourne.

NASA says Comet 3I/ATLAS will make its closest approach on Dec.

19—skywatchers can also catch the Geminid meteor shower peak on Dec. 13–14 and view a Moon and Jupiter conjunction on Dec. 7. Local residents are encouraged to use telescopes and attend observatory events to observe these rare events.

A preview tour of Brevard’s first Trader Joe’s store shows its layout and product selection ahead of the Dec.

3 opening—local shoppers will soon have a new option for groceries.

On December 1, SpaceX launched 29 Starlink satellites from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39A + the Falcon 9 booster later landed on the Just Read the Instructions droneship in the Atlantic.

Brevard Public Schools will form a task force to review Florida’s new Schools of Hope law that lets charter schools use vacant public spaces.

The district is weighing proposals—such as Mater Academy’s interest in several schools—as it works to protect taxpayer dollars and student safety.

Blue Origin filed a permit request with the state to renew its approval for releasing 0.467 million gallons of process wastewater and 0.015 million gallons of non-process wastewater into a stormwater pond and then the Indian River—Brevard County commissioners will meet today at 5 p.m. to discuss the proposal and may urge FDEP to hold a public meeting amid community concerns about the sensitive ecosystem.

Melbourne Police honored Jim Nickelson today for 27 years of service as he retired, praising his work in keeping the Joseph Pellicano Law Enforcement Center fully operational for officers.

His dedication and behind-the-scenes efforts helped the department run smoothly every day.

December Social Security retirement benefits will be sent on Dec 10, Dec 17, and Dec 24 based on birth dates while SSI recipients will get two payments due to a holiday adjustment.

Benefit amounts will increase by 2.8% in 2026 — affecting nearly 5 million Floridians who rely on these payments.

Viera Elks Lodge is set to host the Hoop Shoot free throw contest for kids ages 8 to 13 on Dec.

5 at 6 p.m. at Viera Regional Park Recreation Center+ six local winners will advance to the district contest on Jan. 10.

Melbourne’s PuroClean boys Athlete of the Week contest accepts votes for athletes with performances from Nov.

17-29—votes can be cast at 321preps.com and floridatoday.com until noon on Dec. 4.

The Eastern Florida State College women's basketball team, now 3-3, hosts a non-conference game today at Titan Field House at 5:30 p.m.—they won the first meeting against Tallahassee State in November and will play two more games this week.

Voting is open for the PuroClean of Melbourne Girls Athlete of the Week for performances from Nov.

17 to Nov. 29, 2025 on 321preps.com and floridatoday.com—voters can cast one vote per device each hour until noon on Thursday, Dec. 4. Coaches and athletic directors can email athlete accomplishments by 10 a.m. on Sundays to nominate future candidates.

The Christmas Market & More

4-8 p.m. — Viera Regional Park — Free entry — Explore holiday treats, unique gifts, and local artisans at this festive market.

Plant Market & More

10 AM – 2 PM — Downtown Melbourne Farmer's Market at Riverview Park — Free entry — Explore local growers, fresh produce, and artisanal offerings at this vibrant market.

Melbourne Speed Dating for Singles in Their 40s and 50s

2-4 p.m. — BeachFly Brewing Company — Ticket required — Meet potential matches in a fun, fast-paced dating environment.

AK40 Band Live Performance

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Squid Lips Grill — Enjoy a night of classic rock and funk with the AK40 Band's energetic performance.

Classic Albums Live - Bob Marley: Legend

8-9:30 p.m. — Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket info available on the website — Celebrate the legacy of Bob Marley with a live performance of his classic album 'Legend'.

Surfing Santas Festival

7 AM – 2 PM — Surfing Santas — Free admission — Experience a festive surf celebration with Santas, elves, and holiday cheer on the waves.

The Grand Manor's New Year’s Eve Bash

8 p.m. — Grand Manor — Free parking — Ring in the New Year at an epic celebration filled with glamour, music, and unforgettable memories.