The countdown is on for the first rocket flight out of New Mexico’s Spaceport America – an area outside Las Cruces.

The blastoff of the UP Aerospace SpaceLoft XL — an unpiloted suborbital rocket — is September 25. For you early risers, the liftoff clock should read 7:30 a.m.

In a New Mexico Economic Development Department release, be advised that access to the launch site and surrounding areas will be prohibited starting at 6 p.m. on Sunday September 24, at which time law enforcement will erect roadblocks at all access points. These roadblocks will be continuously policed.

The only designated public viewing and parking area will be along Highway 51. All spectators at this site assume their own risk and liability. While the liftoff is set for early morning, the flight could be delayed by as much as 10 hours or be postponed to a later date.

If any person or vehicle enters the hazardous zone on September 25, the launch will be canceled and the trespasser will be held liable, the advisory warns.

Spectators are urged to bring their own water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, chairs and blankets, as it could be a long day.

For more information on UP Aerospace, go to:  

http://www.space.com/news/060831_xprize_upaero.html