I'm not going to make a long post today, simply because my brain is fried and still recovering from yesterday's events. The trip to the shuttle launch was great and the actual launch was spectacular. If there is any chance at all that any of you can make a personal trip to Kennedy Space Center to witness a launch, I highly recommend it. However, do NOT try to leave the area around there the same day, it is a disaster!
Above are three photos I took as the shuttle engines ignited and the orbiter began to lift off. We are able to see the shuttle even after it was over 400 miles down range! What an amazing experience. I have more photos and some video which I will get to as soon as possible.
By the way, here is a list of the remaining shuttle launches, scheduled into 2010. Get busy making your travel plans soon!!
Feb. 12, 2009 — Discovery (STS-119/15A) will kick off a five-flight 2009 by delivering the final pair of U.S. solar arrays to the space station.
May 15, 2009 — Endeavour (STS-127/2JA) will set sail with the final permanent components for the Japanese Kibo Laboratory on the space station.
July 30, 2009 — Atlantis (STS-128/17A) will launch carrying science and storage racks to the space station.
Oct. 15, 2009 — Discovery (STS-129/ULF-3) will place spare components outside the space station.
Dec. 10, 2009 — Endeavour (STS-130/20A) will close 2009 by delivering the final connecting node, Node 3, and the Cupola, a robotic control station that provides a 360-degree view around the station.
Feb. 11, 2010 — Atlantis (STS-131/19A) begins the first flight in 2010, carrying a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module filled with science racks for the laboratories of the station.
April 8, 2010 — Discovery (STS-132/ULF-4) will carry an integrated cargo carrier to deliver maintenance and assembly hardware, including spare parts for space station systems.
May 31, 2010 — Endeavour (STS-133/ULF-5) will carry critical spare components that will be placed on the outside of the station.
2 comments:
Yo FIL and MIL- I am sooooooooooooooooo happy you finally saw a shuttle launch... now all you have to do is time your next trip to see it come in! Talk about an amazing experience! Can't wait to hear all about it!
-DIL
DIL, it definately ranks up there with the most fascinating things I have done in my life. Even considering the horrible drive home, I would do it again tomorrow if I could!
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