Good morning, Melbourne.

L3Harris announced its $100 million satellite facility in Palm Bay has reached full-scale production for assembling missile-tracking satellites for the SDA’s constellation—fueling local growth with an expected 100 new jobs.

ULA launched an Atlas V rocket with five boosters at 3:28 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec.

16 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, lifting 27 Amazon Leo satellites into orbit. Later today, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 will launch 29 Starlink satellites from Kennedy Space Center + maintain the active launch schedule.

Local entertainment events on the Space Coast include magician Justin Willman performing at the King Center on Dec.

21, historic home holiday tours from Dec. 19-21, musical shows at Titusville Playhouse and the Henegar Center — plus a writers meeting and free ranger-led tours at Turkey Creek Sanctuary.

Rep. Monique Miller joined SeaWorld researchers and Florida Tech experts at a summit today to review progress on restoring the Indian River Lagoon; participants examined challenges and next steps to improve water health (a key local habitat).

Brevard County officials and local conservation groups (environmental advocates) are urging stricter rules on Blue Origin’s wastewater permit to prevent pollutant discharges into the Indian River Lagoon.

They expect the review to lead to new permit requirements soon.

Brevard County Commission approved a trial program on Tuesday to offer homeowners along the lagoon at least $6,000 to upgrade their septic systems ahead of a 2030 state mandate—county staff will report the program’s impact after six months.

Work on the Basin 1 Stormwater Improvement Project will soon begin in the Basin 1 area as Melbourne Beach works to enhance stormwater management and reduce flooding.

Construction may cause temporary traffic adjustments as residents get used to the improvements.

When the holiday season feels heavy, retired pastor and mental health expert Dr. John Baggett advises residents to plan personal self-care through gratitude lists, gentle social gatherings, and quiet moments — measures that help ease seasonal blues and support emotional healing.

Florida farmers help locals enjoy fresh produce every day with a recipe by Fresh From Florida that features red snapper and charred avocado.

The recipe uses simple preparation steps with locally sourced ingredients — highlighting the bounty available at local stores.

Florida Tech's Sara Batchadji was named National Player of the Year by United Soccer Coaches on Tuesday, Dec.

16 after a season with 5 goals + 5 assists and career-high stats, leading her team toward its first national championship run.

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.