Cape Canaveral Lighthouse

The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Cape Canaveral, Florida, United States.

History

• Construction of the lighthouse began in 1842 and was completed in 1846 by the U.S. Coast Survey.
• The lighthouse was designed to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean.

Architecture

The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is a tall, white cylindrical tower with a distinctive square base.

• The tower stands at an impressive 42 meters (138 feet) above sea level, while its focal height reaches 63 meters (207 feet).
• The lighthouse's architecture is characteristic of early 19th-century U.S. Coast Survey lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse emits a white light that can be seen from up to 24 nautical miles away.

• The light has a distinctive sequence, with flashes occurring every 20 seconds and a period of 0.2+(4.8)+0.2+(14.8).

Current Status

The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is currently an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated since its decommissioning in 1997.

• The lighthouse remains a vital part of the U.S. Coast Guard's navigational aids system, providing critical guidance for mariners and pilots.

Location and Accessibility

The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is located on Lighthouse Road, near the city of Cape Canaveral, Florida.

• Visitors can access the lighthouse via a short walk from the parking area.
• The surrounding area offers scenic views of the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean.

Heritage Status

The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse has been recognized as a historic landmark by the U.S. Coast Guard and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Its significance as a navigational aid and its well-preserved condition make it an important part of American maritime history.

Notable Historical Events

During World War II, the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse played a critical role in guiding Allied aircraft to safety during training exercises.

• The lighthouse's proximity to the U.S. Navy's Banana River Naval Air Station made it an ideal location for air traffic control and navigation aids.