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NASA Shuttle Specific Sections => Atlantis (Post STS-135, T&R) => Topic started by: Overflow on 06/27/2013 03:53 pm

Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/27/2013 03:53 pm
They're getting ready!
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 06/27/2013 04:19 pm
Yesterday, still a night shift has been inserted,

(http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/4828/90ti.jpg) 26.06.13 5:40 AM

and today started with the construction of a stage. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/coolio.gif)

(http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/3360/8zpo.jpg) 27.06.13 11:55 AM

Calm before the rush, outside and inside ... (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/whistle.gif)

(http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/2646/jvuh.jpg)
Source: NASA/Jim Grossmann

(http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/5266/va5i.jpg)
Source: NASA/Jim Grossmann

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/27/2013 09:01 pm
The stage looks set!
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Rocket Science on 06/27/2013 09:09 pm
Is that T-38 the "real deal"?
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Jim on 06/27/2013 11:03 pm
I cried
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Rocket Science on 06/27/2013 11:18 pm
I cried
Great pics of you both Jim! Thanks for sharing. :)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: DMeader on 06/27/2013 11:52 pm
I just knew that the steely-eyed missile man had a sentimental side.  :)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: padrat on 06/28/2013 12:39 am
When I went a week ago to the family event there wasn't a ton of people there. I felt sentimental but nothing major. I took my visiting mother and my kids there yesterday and they are now letting the public go through. Even though I had seen it before, this time, probably because of the much larger awestruck crowd, when she was revealed I had tears flowing...

Damn allergies......
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: wolfpack on 06/28/2013 04:08 pm
Actually, that one photo across the pool showing the SRB/ET stack is almost more gripping than OV-104 herself. Kind of reminds you that the orbiters are gone now.

Enjoy it, those of you who are going this weekend! I'll make the pilgrimage, but it'll be once the kids are old enough to really enjoy Orlando as part of the package.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: PahTo on 06/28/2013 04:31 pm

Indeed, thanks for sharing.  Can't wait to see her in late 2014.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 06/28/2013 04:50 pm
Hello Guys,

Last shot for today, it's all ready now and the stage is completed too. The sun is also shining, so only the red carpet to the entrance is missing ... (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/coolio.gif)

(http://img837.imageshack.us/img837/5775/py6r.jpg) 12:10 PM

Enjoy the show tomorrow! (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/70.gif)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Negative Return on 06/28/2013 05:44 pm
Got my preview on Wednesday. Really well done. I had the pleasure of touring with astronaut Wendy Lawrence, and one of the most gratifying things was seeing all of the people come up to her and ask to chat or get a pic. She was very gracious and indulged everyone.

And that ET/SRB stack outside really is more memorable than you might think. Oddest thing was driving away. Heading down the causeway, there was a shuttle stack in my review mirror! I did a double-take -- twice. Don't see that every day.

For the record, my pics: http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/22705247/2013/06/27/space-shuttle-atlantis-museum-display (http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/22705247/2013/06/27/space-shuttle-atlantis-museum-display)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/28/2013 08:37 pm
I watched Fox's story on Atlantis last night. It's great to see her get some air time.

And it looks like the stage had a gust of wind or something..
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 06/28/2013 09:51 pm
Got my preview on Wednesday. Really well done. I had the pleasure of touring with astronaut Wendy Lawrence, and one of the most gratifying things was seeing all of the people come up to her and ask to chat or get a pic. She was very gracious and indulged everyone.

And that ET/SRB stack outside really is more memorable than you might think. Oddest thing was driving away. Heading down the causeway, there was a shuttle stack in my review mirror! I did a double-take -- twice. Don't see that every day.

For the record, my pics: http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/22705247/2013/06/27/space-shuttle-atlantis-museum-display (http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/22705247/2013/06/27/space-shuttle-atlantis-museum-display)

Thanks for sharing your nice pics, you are to be envied. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/coolio.gif)

Maybe I can also visit Atlantis someday ... (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/w00t.gif)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 12:03 pm
We're ready to rock!
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 12:34 pm
I'm guessing that the screen changes..
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 01:33 pm
The ceremony has started.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 01:50 pm
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 01:51 pm
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 02:04 pm
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 02:11 pm
Just had a sweet message from Expedition 36 on the ISS.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 02:13 pm
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 02:41 pm
Atlantis is now on her new mission.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 06/29/2013 03:34 pm
The ceremony is over now. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/70.gif)

(http://img801.imageshack.us/img801/5197/yq3t.jpg) 11:10 AM

It is a pity that the webcam shows no images out of the Hall. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/w00t.gif)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/29/2013 03:57 pm
13 more days until I'm there!!
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Artyom. on 06/29/2013 04:04 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdKWe9_OPTs
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 06/29/2013 04:07 pm
13 more days until I'm there!!

You are an enviable lucky devil! I wish you much fun and make lots of beautiful photos for sharing with us. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/coolio.gif)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: collectSPACE on 06/29/2013 09:11 pm
Space Shuttle Atlantis launches on public display in Florida
http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-062913a.html

Space shuttle Atlantis, the final orbiter among NASA's winged fleet to fly into space, launched on its new mission Saturday (June 29) as the centerpiece of a $100 million tourist attraction in Florida.

Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit opening with support from souvenirs
http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-062813a.html

It would not be a proper Florida theme park attraction if you didn't exit through the gift shop.

But the souvenir station that awaits guests inside the new "Space Shuttle Atlantis" exhibit, opening Saturday (June 29) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, is not your typical trinket stand.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 07/02/2013 05:36 pm
Does anyone know if they plan to bring back the Live Webcam?
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: wkann on 07/03/2013 06:00 pm
Does anyone know if they plan to bring back the Live Webcam?

Let's hope they bring it back, but make it better. Have it be live streaming and be able to control it.  :)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Space Pete on 07/08/2013 04:04 pm
Today marks two years since her final launch. :(
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ares67 on 07/08/2013 04:41 pm
Today marks two years since her final launch. :(

Those were the days...

The KSC Visitor Center has done a remarkable job with the Atlantis display.

But nothing can beat the display we've had during Atlantis' grand finale two years ago!

Don't put birds into a cage. Just watch them in their natural environment...  ;)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/08/2013 05:03 pm
Well said, Ares.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/12/2013 09:08 pm
Greetings from the Atlantis exhibit!
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Foxtrot42 on 07/17/2013 05:34 pm
I love this exhibit! Everywhere you go Atlantis is always the center of attention. Really fits her diva personality.

I was there the day Discovery and Enterprise were nose-to-nose in D.C., but just going to see Atlantis in full glory rivals that experience. I hope to go back someday really soon.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/17/2013 07:35 pm
I agree. I loved how the exhibit was all about Atlantis! That's the way it should be. She deserves it. I'll be making a new thread with my experience when I get back from vacation on Saturday.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 07/17/2013 09:38 pm
Yep, that's a good idea, and take good close up photos for sharing with us. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/70.gif)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dawei on 07/18/2013 03:31 am
It really amazed me how close we could get to the orbiter.  Never in a million years did I think I could ever get that close to an orbiter.  Also, the "reveal" of the orbiter after the initial movie presentation was truly awesome.  Great exhibit.  Worth the cost of admission.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jmcgauley on 07/18/2013 03:52 pm
My wife, 6-year-old daughter and I visited the Atlantis exhibit last week and it is nothing sure of stunning. I honestly walked in with very low expectations, thinking it might even be a little sad. I was afraid the orbiter would come off looking like it had been stuffed and mounted on a wall. It is incredibly positive and hopeful exhibit. I really love the way in which it showcases the people who made it happen, not just the hardware. The culture of the shuttle program is something that a lot of non-enthusiasts never hear about. They sure will now. The price of the ticket should not scare you off. You get your money's worth and then some. I can share pics if anyone wants to see them.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 07/18/2013 09:14 pm
Yes this ingenious technique is fascinating, maybe I can visit Atlantis at some point even. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/coolio.gif)

Please share your photos and let us participate in your enthusiasm. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/377.gif)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: 32s on 07/18/2013 10:55 pm
Pictures of Atlantis today
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: 32s on 07/18/2013 10:58 pm
Atlantis
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: 32s on 07/18/2013 11:05 pm
Picture of someone that couldn't keep their hands off the payload bay door on sat  >:(
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: 32s on 07/18/2013 11:10 pm
SRB and ET
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: 32s on 07/18/2013 11:15 pm
One more
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/18/2013 11:41 pm
Picture of someone that couldn't keep their hands off the payload bay door on sat  >:(

You could actually touch the PLBD?
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ford Mustang on 07/19/2013 02:35 am
Picture of someone that couldn't keep their hands off the payload bay door on sat  >:(

You could actually touch the PLBD?

She's quite close in the pictures, so I would guess someone determined to touch her would be able to do so with a little reach...
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/19/2013 11:31 am
Picture of someone that couldn't keep their hands off the payload bay door on sat  >:(

You could actually touch the PLBD?

She's quite close in the pictures, so I would guess someone determined to touch her would be able to do so with a little reach...

Ugh..
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: collectSPACE on 07/19/2013 02:14 pm
For what it's worth, before the exhibit opened, I tried to reach out and touch Atlantis from exactly that point — before the sign was installed. It was deceptively close but still well out of reach.

When I returned after the opening, with the sign now installed, I couldn't see any way that someone could reach over and touch the orbiter.

From the photo, it looks like the person is reaching for it, but I'd be surprised if s/he made contact.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 07/19/2013 04:46 pm
I am sure that distance will be chosen already so that nobody can touch Atlantis, it only looks like. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/70.gif)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 07/19/2013 07:18 pm
In those pictures it does not seem to be very crowded at all, has the crowd died down now that it has been open for a few weeks? I like the idea of lighter crowds, then its a more personal experience with Atlantis.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: yorky10 on 07/19/2013 07:21 pm
For what it's worth, before the exhibit opened, I tried to reach out and touch Atlantis from exactly that point — before the sign was installed. It was deceptively close but still well out of reach.

When I returned after the opening, with the sign now installed, I couldn't see any way that someone could reach over and touch the orbiter.

From the photo, it looks like the person is reaching for it, but I'd be surprised if s/he made contact.
I agree it's further than it looks. I'm more concerned about falling cameras / sunglasses etc on that left wing tip.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Foxtrot42 on 07/20/2013 04:51 am
In those pictures it does not seem to be very crowded at all, has the crowd died down now that it has been open for a few weeks? I like the idea of lighter crowds, then its a more personal experience with Atlantis.

I was there on a Thursday and I wasn't standing in line for anything longer than 5 minutes. For Atlantis, they bring people in by groups, so you have one group come in, and when they disperse, there is usually a little time before the next group. I found I had plenty of time for calm reflection with the old bird.
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: padrat on 07/20/2013 11:22 am
My wife said there was 10K people in the park on Friday when they were expecting 5-6K. So the crowds haven't really died down yet. Of course there was also a launch Friday as well.
But yeah, you don't really wait too long. Plus it's well worth the wait. But that's just my opinion.... ;)
Title: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/20/2013 02:32 pm
For what it's worth, before the exhibit opened, I tried to reach out and touch Atlantis from exactly that point — before the sign was installed. It was deceptively close but still well out of reach.

When I returned after the opening, with the sign now installed, I couldn't see any way that someone could reach over and touch the orbiter.

From the photo, it looks like the person is reaching for it, but I'd be surprised if s/he made contact.

Good. Thank you for this information.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/21/2013 12:03 am
Whoa. I see we have a new thread here.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: meat10af on 07/22/2013 01:44 am
I had the pleasure of spending last Friday with Atlantis. She’s my favorite orbiter, and I’m ever-thankful to have seen her launch on STS-135. Seeing her brought back memories of that last hurrah, and of her rollover to the Visitor’s Complex back in November.

Needless to say, the exhibit is gorgeous, informative and downright surreal. It’s crowded as can be, but most people seemed very respectful and I never felt like my experience was being impeded.

The museum had a staff member on hand to answer questions about the exhibit. I’m unsure if he was a STS engineer or if he is a historian of some persuasion, but he certainly knew a good deal about the orbiter and the exhibit in general.

I visited Atlantis three times over the course of the day. During my final visit, I was in the museum about thirty minutes before closing, when people had started clearing out a bit. As mentioned earlier, the crowds were all very respectful, but photo ops are usually better with fewer people around. I took the opportunity to get a photo of only me and Atlantis. It’s one I’ll cherish.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/22/2013 01:49 am
Hello meat10af! You and I have a lot in common. Atlantis is also my favorite orbiter.

PS - I really like your last picture. It shows how huge Atlantis is.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: meat10af on 07/22/2013 04:31 am
Hello meat10af! You and I have a lot in common. Atlantis is also my favorite orbiter.

PS - I really like your last picture. It shows how huge Atlantis is.

Indeed! She's got the most interesting mix of missions, I think.

Thank you! Being within feet of her was stunning, no doubt. I felt dwarfed by her the entire time. After seeing her up close, it's hard to compare her to anything else. To call her a "machine" doesn't quite cut it. The wear all over the TPS truly gives her the appearance of being alive.

The pictures in your thread are excellent, by the way. They really capture the wonder of the exhibit start to finish. Nice job!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/22/2013 12:33 pm
Hello meat10af! You and I have a lot in common. Atlantis is also my favorite orbiter.

PS - I really like your last picture. It shows how huge Atlantis is.

Indeed! She's got the most interesting mix of missions, I think.

Thank you! Being within feet of her was stunning, no doubt. I felt dwarfed by her the entire time. After seeing her up close, it's hard to compare her to anything else. To call her a "machine" doesn't quite cut it. The wear all over the TPS truly gives her the appearance of being alive.

The pictures in your thread are excellent, by the way. They really capture the wonder of the exhibit start to finish. Nice job!

Thank you!

I agree that the orbiters have a persona about them.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/22/2013 08:16 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dIgoIZSGWE
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/26/2013 03:10 am
I saw Atlantis on Monday, July 22, for my birthday!  She was amazing!  I felt myself tremble as the screen was being raised.  After building models for so many years of the shuttles, I really had not anticipated how big they are!  We took an Up-Close tour of the VAB and Pad 39A that day, so we were pressed for time and didn't get to see all of the exhibits in the Atlantis building, but with the year pass, we will return and I will take many more pictures.

Link to my pictures:

http://s947.photobucket.com/user/Ronpur/slideshow/Atlantis

One final thought, while I enjoyed seeing her, I would rather see her flying again!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/26/2013 06:24 pm
I saw Atlantis on Monday, July 22, for my birthday!  She was amazing!  I felt myself tremble as the screen was being raised.  After building models for so many years of the shuttles, I really had not anticipated how big they are!  We took an Up-Close tour of the VAB and Pad 39A that day, so we were pressed for time and didn't get to see all of the exhibits in the Atlantis building, but with the year pass, we will return and I will take many more pictures.

Link to my pictures:

http://s947.photobucket.com/user/Ronpur/slideshow/Atlantis

One final thought, while I enjoyed seeing her, I would rather see her flying again!

Hello Ronpur50. :)

I really enjoyed your pictures!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/28/2013 02:14 am

Hello Ronpur50. :)

I really enjoyed your pictures!


Thanks, Overflow!  I really enjoyed yours as well.  She is amazing, isn't she?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/28/2013 03:39 pm

Hello Ronpur50. :)

I really enjoyed your pictures!


Thanks, Overflow!  I really enjoyed yours as well.  She is amazing, isn't she?

Thanks!

Without a doubt. KSCVC did an amazing job at displaying her.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 07/31/2013 10:35 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyDNBGncEao
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Rocket Science on 07/31/2013 11:08 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyDNBGncEao

Awesome, got goose bumps... Thanks for sharing it with us.  :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/31/2013 11:42 pm
Great tribute!  Makes me wish I was back there to see her again!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 08/01/2013 01:32 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyDNBGncEao

Awesome, got goose bumps... Thanks for sharing it with us.  :)

No problem!  :)

Great tribute!  Makes me wish I was back there to see her again!

Hopefully you will!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 08/01/2013 01:57 pm
Great video, Although I did fast forward through the part where you took a video of the movie they play, I do not want to know what that movie looks like till I see it in person  ;D
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 08/01/2013 11:09 pm
Great video, Although I did fast forward through the part where you took a video of the movie they play, I do not want to know what that movie looks like till I see it in person  ;D

I totally understand!  :D Thankfully, I didn't include all of the pre shows. You will not be disappointed when you visit!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 08/04/2013 11:13 pm
Hey guys! I don't know if any of you knew this, but there's actually Atlantis BILLBOARDS in Orlando, Florida! A friend of mine sent me these pictures.

I know there's radio ads going on, but I had no idea KSCVC even went with roadside advertisements.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: psloss on 08/05/2013 12:41 am
I know there's radio ads going on, but I had no idea KSCVC even went with roadside advertisements.
They've had versions on I-95 coming down from Jacksonville and I believe I-75 in the Georgia / Florida border area for years.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 08/05/2013 02:32 am
I know there's radio ads going on, but I had no idea KSCVC even went with roadside advertisements.
They've had versions on I-95 coming down from Jacksonville and I believe I-75 in the Georgia / Florida border area for years.


I've seen them. They're cool.

I was talking about specifically the Atlantis exhibit.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Thorny on 08/05/2013 02:47 am
They're on I-95 south of Jacksonville, too. I think there were always KSC billboards on the interstates in Florida but they've been rebranded as Atlantis billboards in the last month or so.

Of course, there are still five Ron Jon Surf Shop billboards for every KSC billboard...  :-)

My favorite ad campaign was for St. Augustine, though. "40 miles of beaches and the rest is History." Brilliant!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 08/05/2013 12:59 pm
They're on I-95 south of Jacksonville, too. I think there were always KSC billboards on the interstates in Florida but they've been rebranded as Atlantis billboards in the last month or so.

Of course, there are still five Ron Jon Surf Shop billboards for every KSC billboard...  :-)

My favorite ad campaign was for St. Augustine, though. "40 miles of beaches and the rest is History." Brilliant!


I would love to see an Atlantis TV ad!

That last one is a great saying! I love it!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 08/12/2013 09:26 pm
Meanwhile, apparently the first rush is over and almost everyday life has arrived. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/coolio.gif)

Here is also an already not more brand new video with nice details:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=y5zmF6eqTqQ (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=y5zmF6eqTqQ)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Skylon on 08/28/2013 01:08 pm
I saw Atlantis this past weekend - my party did the mega tour (VAB and LC 39A) so we were pressed for time by the time we reached Atlantis (less than an hour before closing). Like the carnivorousness of the VAB (the transfer aisle is that long), one thing that I learned was that pictures don't do justice was the vastness of the TPS. I've seen dozens of pictures of the underside of the shuttle, but once you get an actual look, and see the size of the vehicle itself, you get a context of what that many tiles looks like. I liked the, admittedly more glamorous top views (though is there any way to get a good look at the top of the right wing?) but I was surprised how I ended up more impressed by the underside.

Ironically I've gone to Florida to see an orbiter, before visiting the one an hour away (Enterprise). So far my only view of her was under her deflated tent, during a wacky commute to work, post-Sandy.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Sarah on 08/28/2013 04:01 pm
I saw Atlantis this past weekend - my party did the mega tour (VAB and LC 39A) so we were pressed for time by the time we reached Atlantis (less than an hour before closing). Like the carnivorousness of the VAB (the transfer aisle is that long), one thing that I learned was that pictures don't do justice was the vastness of the TPS. I've seen dozens of pictures of the underside of the shuttle, but once you get an actual look, and see the size of the vehicle itself, you get a context of what that many tiles looks like. I liked the, admittedly more glamorous top views (though is there any way to get a good look at the top of the right wing?) but I was surprised how I ended up more impressed by the underside.

Ironically I've gone to Florida to see an orbiter, before visiting the one an hour away (Enterprise). So far my only view of her was under her deflated tent, during a wacky commute to work, post-Sandy.

I've been to all four orbiter retirement sites over this summer. There's not really anyway to get a good look at the top of the right wing with Atlantis. The only site you can get a good view of it is with Discovery. Here's a shot I took of it.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v237/intuitiongirls/IMG_00551.jpg) 
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 08/29/2013 03:53 pm
Lets not forget that when Endeavour is displayed in her permanent exhibit at the CSC, we'll get the best view of the top of a shuttle.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 08/29/2013 08:32 pm
I was there at Atlantis again today.  I can barely see her name on the wing.  When I go through my pictures, I will post what I took of the wing.  I took a lot of pictures today!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 08/29/2013 09:52 pm
How much is the rush for? (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/coolio.gif)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 08/29/2013 10:01 pm
Here is the best picture I could get of Atlantis's name on her wing.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 08/30/2013 12:12 am
I did not expect this picture to turn out like this! The Moon looking down at us!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 08/30/2013 12:25 am
I wonder if these tiles would have been replaced if Atlantis was to have flown again?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ford Mustang on 08/30/2013 04:20 am
I wonder if these tiles would have been replaced if Atlantis was to have flown again?

Most for sure, they wouldn't take any risk flying her not in top form.  She looks good for the battle she put up with though!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 08/30/2013 05:58 pm
She is a thing of beauty that is for sure.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 08/30/2013 07:20 pm
I was there at Atlantis again today.  I can barely see her name on the wing.  When I go through my pictures, I will post what I took of the wing.  I took a lot of pictures today!

I am SO jealous!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 08/31/2013 05:02 am
I was there at Atlantis again today.  I can barely see her name on the wing.  When I go through my pictures, I will post what I took of the wing.  I took a lot of pictures today!

I am SO jealous!

LOL,  and there was hardly anyone there.  The pre-show was down, so we just went though the gift shop. We had Atlantis almost to ourselves for about 45 minutes!

So here are a few of my favorite pictures.  I added 166 more to my album on Photobucket, but I will just post the link to those:
http://s947.photobucket.com/user/Ronpur/slideshow/Atlantis
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 08/31/2013 07:22 am
Thanks Ronpur for your amazing photos and especially for sharing your fantastic slideshow. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/377.gif)

All 204 pictures are really impressive, and so I could feel how close to Atlantis during a real tour through this unique exhibition. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/70.gif)
I've enjoyed every image, and this wealth of details in the close-ups is overwhelming especially for real space model builders and makes me speechless.
(http://orbiter-forum.com/images/smilies/signs/omgsign.gif)
Thank you very much for sharing these great pictures, I wish I could be there too. (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/coolio.gif)

(http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/hi2.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 08/31/2013 12:34 pm
Glad you like the photos Manfred.  As a modeller, I was interested in the details as I took the photos.  I can't wait to see what someone of your talents can do for an Atlantis model!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 09/02/2013 08:15 pm
That's weird that they've been having so many problems with the preshows..

Thanks Ronpur. I'm gonna check your pictures out now.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 09/16/2013 12:52 am
An Orlando news channel did a special on Atlantis called: Journey Through Atlantis. It is very cool.

http://www.clickorlando.com/local-6-special-journey-through-atlantis/-/1637238/21851630/-/go3r5fz/-/index.html
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 09/24/2013 02:14 pm
After reading about how dusty Discovery is at her home, Made me wonder, with Atlantis so exposed to people being so close to her left wing and Cargo Bay, do they do daily checks to make sure people are not throwing items into her Cargo Bay or dropping gum, food, etc on her left wing?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brad2007a on 09/25/2013 01:08 am
After reading about how dusty Discovery is at her home, Made me wonder, with Atlantis so exposed to people being so close to her left wing and Cargo Bay, do they do daily checks to make sure people are not throwing items into her Cargo Bay or dropping gum, food, etc on her left wing?

I know I'm going out on a limb and violating the "Assume Rule" ("Never ASSUME, or you may make an A**out of U, not ME"), but I'd ASSUME ;) that there's enough security presence to prevent that from happening...

Could be wrong, of course.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 09/25/2013 02:04 am
I have never "seen" security there, but there is always tour guides or others around answering questions.  They also have what looked like a ladder or work platform in the ceiling that could possibly drop down to allow dusting or repair of any type of visitor damage.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 09/25/2013 12:13 pm
Gotcha, I am hoping to see Atlantis within the next few months.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 09/25/2013 12:37 pm
Prepare to be thrilled!   :D
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/05/2013 11:55 am
I am hoping to go for my birthday at the end of the month!! I am so excited.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Zach121k on 11/08/2013 05:07 pm
I was there just a week or so after the opening, and I was told they were most likely going to put a net or shield in front of the shuttle. I was told by a security guard there about people throwing stuff into the cargo bay, and someone almost threw their shoe; before they were stopped.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 11/08/2013 05:24 pm
Amazing what there is for slobs! (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/shocked.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/11/2013 11:36 am
I was there just a week or so after the opening, and I was told they were most likely going to put a net or shield in front of the shuttle. I was told by a security guard there about people throwing stuff into the cargo bay, and someone almost threw their shoe; before they were stopped.

That is exactly what I was posting my worries about before it opened with how close you are to the orbiter :(
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jacqmans on 11/11/2013 09:49 pm
Atlantis looked great today  ;)

Oh and the Saturn 1B rocket is getting new paint  8)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 11/11/2013 10:00 pm
Thanks Jacques for sharing your nice pics. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cool.gif)

Have you also seen some of these slobs? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/rolleyes.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jacqmans on 11/11/2013 10:04 pm
Thanks Jacques for sharing your nice pics. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cool.gif)

Have you also seen some of these slobs? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/rolleyes.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)

No not so many people around this morning.. Last Saturday it was very crowded...so if you plan a visit do NOT do it in a weekend !!! No net around Atlantis, and no people trowing things....lets hope it stays that way.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Rocket Science on 11/11/2013 10:38 pm
Wonderful photos Jacques, thank you for sharing them! :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/12/2013 12:46 am
Great pictures, Jacques!  Very, very happy to see the poor old 1B is getting a face lift!  She was looking very rough in July and August.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/12/2013 01:52 pm
My wife and I are going in 2 weeks (The Sunday on Thanksgiving Weekend) but I am hoping it wont be to crowded since most people will be heading home that day. I would love to get to see Atlantis without a huge crowd around her. We plan on being there right when they open. I am so excited (We are also doing the launch pad upclose tour)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 11/12/2013 02:36 pm
Wow Brett, you're a lucky devil, I envy you. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cry.gif)

How close you'll get to the pad in your launch pad tour, which you can visit all?

Are the safety requirements after completion of the shuttle program looser than before? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/12/2013 03:02 pm
I created a thread in the General Discussion section (My thread is the 1st one up right now) where a few people gave me insight to the pad tour, a few posted pics to. I am still not 100% on all the details of the tour but that thread I created does answer a few :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 11/12/2013 04:05 pm
That makes me pretty mad about people throwing stuff at Atlantis. She was once orbiting the earth, and now she's getting shoes thrown at her.

Jac, awesome pictures. I'm glad you enjoyed your visit.

Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/12/2013 08:22 pm
I agree Overflow.  If I were there and someone did that, I would be going to jail with them after I punched them....
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/13/2013 12:22 pm
Id flip out if I saw someone doing that. When I go in 2 weeks I am hoping for a small crowd in the early morning so I can get some great pictures. I hear the intro movie then seeing her as the wall opens will bring tears to your eyes, so I am hoping my wife doesnt see me get choked up!!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 11/13/2013 12:57 pm
To me it would probably fare equally. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cry.gif) (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cry.gif) (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cry.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jacqmans on 11/13/2013 07:26 pm
When you visit Atlantis make sure that you look around, you might spot a former Astronaut, like I did today, Jon McBride (STS-41G) was there, and he was so kind to pose for a photo.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 11/13/2013 09:48 pm
I agree Overflow.  If I were there and someone did that, I would be going to jail with them after I punched them....

I don't blame you, Ronpur!

I hear the intro movie then seeing her as the wall opens will bring tears to your eyes, so I am hoping my wife doesnt see me get choked up!!

Oh the reveal is a tough one. I'm not a cryer, but I had cloudy eyes when she was revealed. It honestly sums up the entire emotional connection that people have for the shuttles.


When you visit Atlantis make sure that you look around, you might spot a former Astronaut, like I did today, Jon McBride (STS-41G) was there, and he was so kind to pose for a photo.

A good amount of the workers at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex were ex-Space Shuttle workers. And that's one of my favorite things about KSC.

I was eating pizza under the Saturn V when I went last summer, and a worker wiping tables down saw my Space Shuttle Atlantis gift shop bag and started asking me about how I liked the exhibit. Turns out, it was a worker that worked on the shuttles until retirement. It was really great talking to him.

Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 11/13/2013 10:07 pm
When you visit Atlantis make sure that you look around, you might spot a former Astronaut, like I did today, Jon McBride (STS-41G) was there, and he was so kind to pose for a photo.

Wow, what a nice acquaintance with a legendary crew member of the Challenger's mission in 1984. Then there were only 3 Challenger missions to the disaster with STS-51L in 1986 ...

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jacqmans on 11/14/2013 01:28 pm
ok one final shot.... ;)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 11/14/2013 06:45 pm
ok one final shot.... ;)

Love it!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Sarah on 11/16/2013 10:00 pm
That makes me pretty mad about people throwing stuff at Atlantis. She was once orbiting the earth, and now she's getting shoes thrown at her.

Jac, awesome pictures. I'm glad you enjoyed your visit.

The only thing I noticed were some marks on the left elevon but who knows when those happened.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: DaveS on 11/16/2013 10:19 pm
That makes me pretty mad about people throwing stuff at Atlantis. She was once orbiting the earth, and now she's getting shoes thrown at her.

Jac, awesome pictures. I'm glad you enjoyed your visit.

The only thing I noticed were some marks on the left elevon but who knows when those happened.
Here's a photo from STS-135 that shows them during the mission so I guess they have been there a while.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 11/17/2013 08:06 am
Compliment Dave, you must have eagle eyes, you've noticed that. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/shocked.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 11/17/2013 12:13 pm
I was wondering what that was from when I saw Atlantis too. I just hoped that it wasn't from her retirement days.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Rocket Science on 11/17/2013 12:35 pm
I think it says “please wash me” in alien from her last flight...  :D
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Sarah on 11/18/2013 03:38 am
I actually laughed when I first saw this. How could you not like the display? My daughter slipped out of the gift shop and stood there for about two minutes pushing the left button. Just as I was walking over to get her, one of the KSC workers kindly told her that she only needed to push it once. Her reply was, "Yeah, but I really, really liked it!"  ;D
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/18/2013 11:38 am
Just under 2 weeks and I will be there!! WHOO HOOO
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/19/2013 12:45 am
May get there on the 26th!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 11/19/2013 08:03 am
(http://orbiter-forum.com/images/smilies/signs/omgsign.gif)   how I envy you lucky guys, I can only dream ...(http://www.kartonist.de/wbb2/images/smilies/x-crying.gif)

That must indeed be almost like Christmas, right?

Enjoy!!!  (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cool.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/19/2013 11:47 am
Sunday Dec 1st is when I will be there (This is my birthday gift since my birthday is the Dec. 3rd)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 11/19/2013 01:00 pm
Sunday Dec 1st is when I will be there (This is my birthday gift since my birthday is the Dec. 3rd)

You will love it. Please take video and pictures.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/19/2013 02:24 pm
You can count on it!!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Sarah on 11/20/2013 03:27 am
While you are visiting KSC, go into Firing Room 4 in the LCC and thumb through the S0007 manuals. Interesting reading material. I suspect these are probably on L2 somewhere but to have one in your hand is pretty cool.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/20/2013 04:17 pm
I am doing the Launch Pad up close tour so I do not know if I will be able to see that firing room, but if so, do they really have the manuals out that you can scroll through? They dont worry about anyone stealing them?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Sarah on 11/20/2013 07:19 pm
I am doing the Launch Pad up close tour so I do not know if I will be able to see that firing room, but if so, do they really have the manuals out that you can scroll through? They dont worry about anyone stealing them?

No one is going to steal them. You are being escorted by two security staff. I was one of 12 people in there at the time.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/20/2013 10:20 pm
I assume you have to do the launch control center tour?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 11/20/2013 11:54 pm
Kinda eerie how the STS-135 books are still there.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ford Mustang on 11/21/2013 03:57 am
I am doing the Launch Pad up close tour so I do not know if I will be able to see that firing room, but if so, do they really have the manuals out that you can scroll through? They dont worry about anyone stealing them?

No one is going to steal them. You are being escorted by two security staff. I was one of 12 people in there at the time.

Obligatory plug for L2 here.  We have the STS Launch "Bibles" which include a lot of the actual content in those books available for download.  I know we're not launching Shuttle anymore, but you can watch old recorded launch days and it's neat to follow along!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 11/21/2013 12:50 pm
Stop bringing up L2! I'm trying to resist the urge to become a member!  ;)  ;D
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Rocket Science on 11/21/2013 01:22 pm
Stop bringing up L2! I'm trying to resist the urge to become a member!  ;)  ;D
“Resistance is futile”.... :D
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: OV135 on 11/22/2013 03:55 pm
*holds up his pepper spray* Anyone I see throwing things at Atlantis will be sprayed.  *evil grin*  Idiocy will not be tolerated by me. How dare brats and losers do this to a prized vehicle.    Hmm, maybe a net should be put up or a plastic covering over the payload bay so nothing gets in it.

TBH I have no sympathy toward the idiots and morons of society, none. Especially if they something so stupid as throw a shoe or anything at Atlantis. They could be labeled terrorists and then never return to KSC as they are labeled a threat.  Hey if it protects our historical treasures from retards then I'm ok with removing dummies like this. I know it's over the top in a way to get rid of the idiots,but given the shuttle is NASA and US government property I think protecting the orbiter this much is worth it. NASA is highly protective of their stuff. I think even if they are museum pieces, the level of security is still up there to make sure no one damages anything.

Anyway fellas, enough of my gripe on morons.  I do hope to see Atlantis next year, fall.

I already have art inspired by the photos of Atlantis on this thread. :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/26/2013 05:19 pm
This Sunday I will be face to face with the lady of KSC!! Cant wait!!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Lee Jay on 11/29/2013 05:44 pm
I'll add a few pictures I took on 11/18/13.  That's me in front of her in 46738.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 11/29/2013 09:50 pm
Nice pics, thanks Lee Jay for sharing. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cool.gif)

You surely had goose bumps, right? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/shocked.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Rocket Science on 11/29/2013 09:58 pm
Looking good there Lee Jay! Sweet pics!! :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Lee Jay on 11/30/2013 12:59 am
Nice pics, thanks Lee Jay for sharing. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cool.gif)

You surely had goose bumps, right? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/shocked.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)

My son was laughing at me.

You see, there's a pre-presentation after which they lift the movie screen and let you in.  My wife noticed when she stood up from the movie that I was gone and asked my son where I was.  He was laughing about the fact that I ducked under the screen and started running into the exhibit to take pictures before anyone else got there.

I was a bit excited.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/30/2013 01:42 am
Doesn't look like it was packed, I so hope Sunday morning she doesn't have a swarm around her
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Lee Jay on 11/30/2013 01:57 am
Couple more, of the tank and boosters (simulations, I know).
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Lee Jay on 11/30/2013 10:36 pm
This is the pre-show room.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Rocket Science on 11/30/2013 10:40 pm
This is the pre-show room.
Nice Lee Jay, never seen this part of the exhibit hall yet, thanks! :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 12/01/2013 12:25 am
This is the pre-show room.

All the tears that the pre-show has caused..
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 12/04/2013 01:47 am
Was amazing!! I had goose bumps, tears and was in there for over 3 hours taking pictures and starring in awe when we went Sunday. I had a picture done with my wife and I and purchased it there and it is supposed to include a email of it to, still haven't received it but here are just a few of mine and the launch pad tour was amazing to.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 12/04/2013 03:20 am
Fantastic!  Glad you enjoyed her!  I will be there Thursday for a while.  It is hard to resist Atlantis when I get to Orlando for a few days!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 12/04/2013 12:37 pm
I took over 250 pictures, here are a few more :) I was SO excited!!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 12/04/2013 07:50 pm
I'm glad you enjoyed yourself, Brett! Please, don't hold back on your pictures!  ;D

Time to update your signature!  ;)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 12/04/2013 07:51 pm
Fantastic!  Glad you enjoyed her!  I will be there Thursday for a while.  It is hard to resist Atlantis when I get to Orlando for a few days!

I hear you loud and clear! I'll be in Orlando Sunday and Monday.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Lee Jay on 12/05/2013 02:43 am
Nice shots!  It's really a great display, second only to back-in-service!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 12/05/2013 05:22 pm
Yeah they did her justice that is for sure!!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Lee Jay on 12/06/2013 02:33 am
I put together a little stitch, in case someone wants some serious resolution.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 12/06/2013 02:41 am
Anyone know what these panels are on the upper left wing of Atlantis?  My friend who is an airline mechanic says his boss says they look like repair patches.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 12/06/2013 02:44 am
And KSCVC and Atlantis looked very Christmasy today!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Lee Jay on 12/08/2013 03:49 pm
There's actually a room/show prior to the pre-show.  There are a couple of collages on the walls, pictures of which are below.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Sarah on 12/13/2013 03:21 pm
What? No one took pics of my signature on the banner in there?  :P
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 12/14/2013 05:34 pm
I have pictures of the banners. I just don't know if you can see your signature..
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Rocket Science on 12/14/2013 05:48 pm
Was amazing!! I had goose bumps, tears and was in there for over 3 hours taking pictures and starring in awe when we went Sunday. I had a picture done with my wife and I and purchased it there and it is supposed to include a email of it to, still haven't received it but here are just a few of mine and the launch pad tour was amazing to.
Standing proud there, thanks for sharing! :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: padrat on 01/22/2014 12:28 am
I keep waiting to see if anyone spots my signature on her. We'll see who's been paying attention the past few years...
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Orbiter on 01/22/2014 12:38 am
I keep waiting to see if anyone spots my signature on her. We'll see who's been paying attention the past few years...

If you mean the tool you dropped on Atlantis' PLBD, I did and took a picture of it.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 01/22/2014 12:08 pm
You mean the tape on her payload bay door from the dropped tool? I was telling my wife all about it when we were there and telling her how you were on the forum and of course took pictures
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 01/22/2014 12:21 pm
You mean the tape on her payload bay door from the dropped tool? I was telling my wife all about it when we were there and telling her how you were on the forum and of course took pictures
I keep waiting to see if anyone spots my signature on her. We'll see who's been paying attention the past few years...

If you mean the tool you dropped on Atlantis' PLBD, I did and took a picture of it.

Wait, I did take a picture of that!  I will find it when I get home.  My friends works as an airline mechanic and spotted it right away, asking me to get a close up so he could show everyone at work. 

PS:Got it, had it on Photobucket!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 05/04/2014 06:47 pm
Did anyone else watch the Astronaut Hall of Fame ceremony under Atlantis yesterday? It was bittersweet.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: OV135 on 07/21/2014 12:24 am
Anyone have new photos of her? Such photos are a great reference to my artwork. :) 
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/21/2014 01:10 am
I might get to go tomorrow again....what do you want pictures of?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: OV135 on 07/21/2014 01:37 am
Well front on views or low angle views if possible. So I can sketch her as if she is flying in orbit or in atmosphere. 

For example. My art.   http://fc04.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2014/201/4/1/explorer_port_by_quartei-d7ri8ad.jpg  http://fc08.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2014/201/f/6/explorer_stbd_by_quartei-d7ri8e4.jpg 

I am also making more art like these two sketches of Explorer.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/23/2014 03:05 pm
well, I got a few new low angle views, I hope they help. And the front from as far back as possible.

I also have an album of all of my Atlantis picture at this link:
http://s947.photobucket.com/user/Ronpur/slideshow/Atlantis

Hopefully, the 272 pictures there can help.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 07/23/2014 09:26 pm
Thanks Ron for sharing your great album with the lots of outstanding shots from very interesting perspectives. (http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/377.gif)

Do you know how they deal with the dust on and in the Atlantis? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/23/2014 09:33 pm
In the year I had my pass, I never noticed any dust.  So they must do something.  The catwalk I showed in the earlier photo may have something to do with it.  I wish I had asked someone!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: OV135 on 07/24/2014 09:00 pm
Great photos Ron. :) 
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 07/28/2014 05:48 pm
Well I went last year and was so excited I spent the whole time taking 100s of pictures and realized after I left that I never really just got to look at Atlantis and walk around her and just take it all in, SO I am going back down to Florida in November so I can go see her again :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/28/2014 06:59 pm
There are some benches under the orbiter......there was something amazing about just sitting there and looking up at all of those tiles.....

Do that.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 07/28/2014 09:37 pm
Hello Guys,

what a beautiful dream that has become reality for you, I envy you all!!! (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cool.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 07/30/2014 12:53 pm
There are some benches under the orbiter......there was something amazing about just sitting there and looking up at all of those tiles.....

Do that.

I will do that for sure, Dont get me wrong I loved seeing her, But because literally I was like a little boy on Christmas day when I saw her, I was running around taking 100's of pictures and in all the excitement, I forgot to truly just look at her and marvel at what I was looking at :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/30/2014 08:48 pm
I did the same.  We went back early and went through the gift shop another day, and we had her to ourselves for a long time while the others went though the pre-show.  It brought me to tears to see her the first time.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 07/30/2014 10:21 pm
Hello Guys,

I can feel with you even in faraway Germany, as it must be to be able to experience this Historic Flight Object (HFO) from this immediate closeness and to think in silence about how many astronauts brought it over and over again into space and then safely back to earth. (http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/sunrevolves.gif) Overwhelming and indescribable. 

(http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/377.gif) (http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/377.gif) (http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/377.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 07/31/2014 02:23 pm
I did the same.  We went back early and went through the gift shop another day, and we had her to ourselves for a long time while the others went though the pre-show.  It brought me to tears to see her the first time.

Yeah I got tears in my eyes as the wall lifted and I saw her, Was very powerful moment.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 09/02/2014 01:08 am
I did the same thing as you, Brett. I made sure to stop and look at Discovery when I saw her a few weeks ago.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: OV135 on 09/03/2014 12:24 am
Any new photos guys? :)  I'm thinking of making a diorama with a future model kit.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 09/03/2014 03:01 pm
I did the same thing as you, Brett. I made sure to stop and look at Discovery when I saw her a few weeks ago.

Discovery was a beautiful site to, I walked around her for hours
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: eywflyer on 09/17/2014 03:27 pm
Been lurking for a few years but new to posting here. I was fortunately enough to visit Atlantis back in May, and was very impressed with the exhibit. I was born in 1971 so grew up with Shuttle, and it was quite hard to see the program shut down. Especially when those vehicles could have kept flying - at least until something else was ready.

Taking the tour bus out to LC 39, the VAB and the Shuttle landing strip (all empty) was kind of depressing.

Got some pictures but not sure how they will look here - were just iPhone photos. Will post them later this week when I get a chance.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 09/18/2014 03:57 am
I have never "seen" security there, but there is always tour guides or others around answering questions.  They also have what looked like a ladder or work platform in the ceiling that could possibly drop down to allow dusting or repair of any type of visitor damage.


You are correct the structure near the ceiling is designed to be lowered to access the Orbiter for cleaning and or repair. I was told by a Delaware North employee that it has not been used yet.
I was a Aerospace Engineer at KSC from 1970 through 2012. I worked on the Apollo Saturn Five S-II  stage and the Apollo spacecraft, was on the Shuttle design team and then a LCC console engineer for Space Shuttle launch operations. I now volunteer (Docent) at the Apollo Saturn Five facility each Saturday and at Atlantis on Sunday.
If any L2 folks come to visit KSC please let me know who you are.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 09/18/2014 04:04 am
Thanks for that info Dave!  I am glad they planned ahead for such needs.  I won't be back for a while, my year pass expired in July, but plan on getting another the next time I go back, so I will look you up when I go, if it is one of those days.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 09/18/2014 04:07 am
Anyone know what these panels are on the upper left wing of Atlantis?  My friend who is an airline mechanic says his boss says they look like repair patches.

The panels with "No Step" on them are rub panels for the elevons. They "float" on the forward edge of the elevon as the elevons are used during atmospheric flight for pitch and roll control.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 09/18/2014 04:35 am
Anyone know what these panels are on the upper left wing of Atlantis?  My friend who is an airline mechanic says his boss says they look like repair patches.

The panels with "No Step" on them are rub panels for the elevons. They "float" on the forward edge of the elevon as the elevons are used during atmospheric flight for pitch and roll control.

I was actually referring to the panels just forward of the float panels.  The ones that look like they are attached with several rows of bolts.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 09/18/2014 03:19 pm
That makes me pretty mad about people throwing stuff at Atlantis. She was once orbiting the earth, and now she's getting shoes thrown at her.

Jac, awesome pictures. I'm glad you enjoyed your visit.

The only thing I noticed were some marks on the left elevon but who knows when those happened.

The white irregular stripes are RTV standard repairs of the insulation.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 09/18/2014 03:34 pm
Anyone know what these panels are on the upper left wing of Atlantis?  My friend who is an airline mechanic says his boss says they look like repair patches.

The panels with "No Step" on them are rub panels for the elevons. They "float" on the forward edge of the elevon as the elevons are used during atmospheric flight for pitch and roll control.

I was actually referring to the panels just forward of the float panels.  The ones that look like they are attached with several rows of bolts.

OK, those are not repairs. I believe they have a aerodynamic function, possibly to disturb the laminar air flow over the elevons. That is my guess but I have not been able to find out what their function is. I do not know if the same panels are on the other Orbiters.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jacqmans on 09/25/2014 07:01 am
Atlantis Astronaut Adventure

Annual passholders are invited to a Space Shuttle Atlantis℠ special VIP experience, October 9, 8 - 9:15 am.

Explore Space Shuttle Atlantis before the Visitor Complex opens. Nearly a dozen veteran NASA astronauts who flew aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis will be available throughout the building during this exclusive event to answer questions and share first-hand experiences about spaceflight.

The Visitor Complex front gate opens at 7:30 am for annual passholders. The VIP tour begins in Space Shuttle Atlantis promptly at 8 am.
 
 

https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/events/2014/october/atlantis-tour.aspx?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email-full&utm_campaign=KSC20140924_AP-SpaceWk
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 09/25/2014 10:23 pm
Hi Guys,

I have also once again looked over to Her Majesty, unfortunately only from a distance. (http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/tach.gif)

(http://24.227.115.122/mjpg/video.mjpg)
Source: NASA

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)


Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 09/27/2014 01:35 am
Happy to say I'll be back to see Atlantis again on November 2nd! Probably for the last time for a while.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 09/27/2014 06:15 am
You lucky devil,  I wish I could swap places with you guys. (http://www.kartonist.de/wbb2/images/smilies/x-crying.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 09/28/2014 07:05 pm
Take a trip over to the states, roma!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 09/29/2014 03:00 pm
Great idea, we can have a party under Atlantis!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 09/29/2014 03:35 pm
Hi Guys,
what a fantastic dream, (http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/beer4.gif) I wish this could become true. (http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/flehan.gif) (http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/flehan.gif) (http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/flehan.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 11/03/2014 01:35 am
Saw Atlantis again today. Still as beautiful as ever. KSCVC has been taking great care of her. However, I did notice that some small details of her exhibit were beginning to wear and tear.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/03/2014 04:44 am
Well, that at least means they are seeing a lot of foot traffic.  What sort of wear and tear did you observe?  And did you try the slide now that they let adults do it?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 11/03/2014 09:54 am
I did try the slide this time. Last time I went the slide wasn't even open yet.

And I noticed that some of the simulations didn't always work right, one or two of the touch screens froze up, the tires from STS-135 were a lot more worn down now (expected), at one point the flat screen behind Atlantis spazzed out for about two seconds (a small random fuzzy line appeared).

I did notice that Atlantis was not nearly as dusty as Discovery. Discovery had a layer of dust on her and cob webs between her elevons. I didn't see any layer of dust or cob webs on Atlantis. However I did see very small dust bunnies on the very tips of Atlantis' wings. But those could only be seen if you were looking for them.

All in all, still an absolutely amazing exhibit. We were actually the first people to go through it yesterday. Then a couple hours later after we did the tour, Saturn V Center and grabbed lunch. We got off the tour bus, looked at the stacks and both said to each other, "Wanna do it again?!" and we went through another time. lol
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 11/07/2014 12:18 pm
Watched STS-132 launch from the causeway back in 2010, going back to visit Atlantis next week ! Any special parts I should pay particular attention to?  Extra detailed picture requests? Suggestions for must-see tours while we're at KSC?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Zakrah on 11/07/2014 01:02 pm
I resisted looking at this topic until I could see her for myself. I was lucky to have time to make the visit on Wednesday morning. It was just before 10am and there were only 5 other people in my group for the introductory video.

The unveil after the vid is absolutely perfect. They have a photographer as you approach the Atlantis but there was no way I wanted my picture taken with tears on my cheeks. Thank you KSC for putting in so much thought and care into the exhibit, well done indeed!





Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/07/2014 01:30 pm
I am not sure what it is about the air conditioner there, but it does seam to make me cry every time I go to see Atlantis.  It is weird!

Great picture of the ET-SRB stack.  I never looked at it from that angle before!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 11/10/2014 04:17 pm
My wife and I went to see Atlantis last week for my second time, We went last November and again the first week of November, Atlantis looked amazing as she did last year, they seem to be taking great care of her. I did talk to one of the guys working the exhibit and he was telling me how he used to work on Columbia and had a peice of her in his hand that doctors say is to risky to remove, so I said to him "Columbia lives on through you then sir" and he looked at me and you could tell that hit him and he smiled and said, Yup.

Oh and I had tears in my eyes as the wall lifted just as I did the first time last year!! :)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: meat10af on 11/14/2014 09:43 pm
I saw Atlantis again last weekend! She's looking really great after over a year on display. In fact, I saw less dust on her this time than I did back in May. Her TPS is holding up just fine so far as I can tell, and it seems like there haven't been any problems with anything falling/spilling on her from the upper floor. Well done, KSCVC!

I have a few photos from my phone I think the regulars on this thread will enjoy...

I've found that Atlantis photographs best using panoramic views. The museum keeps you in rather close quarters with her, so panoramas are really the only way to photograph her entire form. The last one of these is actually a composite featuring yours truly. I had to do a composite of a few images because someone stepped in front of the camera last minute. ;D Oh, one more tip for photography: wait until just before closing time (when KSCVC is clearing out). You get a much clearer view of the orbiter that way.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 11/14/2014 10:04 pm
GREAT pictures meataf10 !!!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: meat10af on 11/14/2014 10:17 pm
Thanks, dave1938!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/14/2014 10:33 pm
Those are fantastic!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 11/16/2014 02:25 am
I just came back to my hotel from seeing her today.  That intro video nearly brought tears to my eyes, thank you KSCVC for taking such great care of Atlantis and truly doing justice to her majesty.

I'm just starting to sift through my pictures now, but there's one pic I'm particularly proud to have captured:
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 11/16/2014 02:56 am
Excellent shot of Panel C3 thru the CDR side window!!! Congratulations. The lighting varies so quickly either you got very lucky or you had many failed attempts!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 11/17/2014 01:35 am
Thanks Dave! Was a combination of both luck and stubbornness, I shot about 32GB of pics and videos from two visits yesterday =p



A couple more low-res pics....hoping to stitch together a super-high res panoramic of Atlantis when I get home.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 11/17/2014 12:36 pm
Very nice, thanks for posting.

I am a docent at the Atlantis most Sunday (Apollo Saturn Five Saturdays). I very much enjoy meeting people from all over the world. After 42 years at KSC (except 4 years in Ca. on the Shuttle design team) as a Aerospace Engineer, I have a lot of stories to share. I hope to meet you there some day.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 11/18/2014 01:04 am
Damn, I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to meet you Dave, I was at the KSC only one day on Saturday, was at the Saturn V building between about 2 and 3:30.  Last time I was there for 132 I spent the entire week at KSC, but this time I had my wife and baby so couldn't set aside more time.

Wish I had known you were there so I could shake your hand and thank you in person for all the work you guys did and continue to do.  Please post some of those stories on here, I think I speak for everyone on NSF when I say there can never be too many of them!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 11/19/2014 02:15 pm
Work in progress for my "ultra high resolution" panorama stitch  :)  Have to do this in sections or else my computer runs out of memory lol.  185 megapixels and counting....
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/19/2014 02:23 pm
That is amazing!!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 11/21/2014 04:20 am
There, almost perfect.  Here's just over 300 megapixels of Atlantis in all her glory.


Wish I used a tripod so I could've used a lower ISO and smaller f-stop for better depth of field, but I'm pretty damn thrilled with this as is!

Decided not to put a watermark on it, the beauty of Atlantis should be shared with everyone =)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 11/21/2014 06:50 am
Hey Naito,
this is a stunning image of Her Majesty and thanks for sharing with us. (http://www.britmodeller.com/forums/public/style_emoticons/default/bow.gif)(http://www.britmodeller.com/forums/public/style_emoticons/default/bow.gif)(http://www.britmodeller.com/forums/public/style_emoticons/default/bow.gif)
It's the best shot I've seen so far and a real treat for gourmets. (http://www.kartonist.de/images/Smile/n060.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/21/2014 01:16 pm
Wow, that really makes me feel like I am back there with her!  Great job!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 11/21/2014 01:19 pm
Excellent !!  Thank you
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/21/2014 02:38 pm
This has inspired me to go look at the photos I took over the last year.  I forgot that I took this one the second time I went through the pre-show.  I was crying and shaking to much the first time.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 11/21/2014 02:41 pm
And I also think we forget the amazing building she is in!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 11/21/2014 03:40 pm
Thanks guys, knew you'd all like it =)  Gonna see if I have enough from other angles to make more of the super-res stitches too!

Ronpur, love the pics of the building, I didn't get many pictures of it at all, was far too excited for what was inside!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Bubbinski on 12/08/2014 03:34 am
Here are a few pics I got of Atlantis last week while at KSC VC:
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 12/08/2014 01:34 pm
Very nice photos. Did you notice the 200 or so MMOD hits on the port radiator panel? If you get the light angle just right you can see the indentation of the hole under the circular patch.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Bubbinski on 12/08/2014 08:29 pm
I didn't really notice the MMOD dings, but I'm sure if I looked closely at my pics I'd find them.

More pics from my visit:
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 12/08/2014 09:49 pm
Hey Guys,

during my precise viewing of this outstanding image, I noticed that the TPS must be damaged at this point. (https://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/shocked.gif)

(http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/800x600q90/905/HWvKNI.jpg)
Source: nasaspaceflight.com (Naito)
Due to the ultra high resolution of Naito's monster shot (over 300 megapixels) one can see this damage very well. (http://www.britmodeller.com/forums/public/style_emoticons/default/bow.gif)

(http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1600x1200q90/540/a0a0VQ.jpg)

It looks like a damaged AFRSI blanket. (https://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)

I think, if you know it, that would be visible with the naked eye. Is this damaged blanket been noticed by someone? (http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/w00t.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 12/08/2014 10:20 pm
The MMOD hits on the radiators (on the inside of the PLBDs) are covered in circular patches. We did not repair any damage from the last flight.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 12/08/2014 10:25 pm
Here are some dings on tiles on the OMS Pod from one of my pictures.  I saw more on the body flap and around the engines.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 12/08/2014 10:27 pm
The MMOD hits on the radiators (on the inside of the PLBDs) are covered in circular patches. We did not repair any damage from the last flight.

Do you mean these little circles towards the top of this picture?

Edit: And the top and bottom of this picture?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 12/09/2014 01:57 am
Yes! The circular areas on the silver radiators are the MMOD patches from previous MMOD hits. MMOD hits from the last flight were not patched. The square patch was most likely a "hanger rash" that is a dropped tool or ding from a piece of GSE during ground processing. Jerry Ross dropped by one day and I asked him, as a joke if, he had kicked the radiator during a EVA. He said "No way, it wasn't me!"

Look closely on the OMS pod hits. You can see hits that were filled in from previous flights and the new gouges from hits on the last flight.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 12/10/2014 12:52 pm
I'm really happy you guys are enjoying that picture =)  Haven't had time to put together any others yet, but I took a couple lower resolution pans from at least 2 other angles closer to the rear and of the bottom.  Will get those eventually =)



It looks like a damaged AFRSI blanket. (https://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)

I think, if you know it, that would be visible with the naked eye. Is this damaged blanket been noticed by someone? (http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/w00t.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)


I was amazed at the amount of wear the tiles in front of the cockpit windows sustained.  Really shows her age and use.  She's not a shiny pristine movie prop, she was an actually flown and used flying machine!  On her belly too, there are lots of little white marks that are telltale signs of damaged tiles, but I suspect those were from rocks kicked up at her last landing.


Just realizing that she really is almost exactly the way she was when she came home from space gives me goosebumps.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 12/10/2014 02:16 pm
OMS pod dings  ;)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 12/10/2014 03:09 pm
OMS pod dings  ;)

Good shot, look closely and you will see patches from previous flights and many hits from the last flight which are not repaired.

Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 12/10/2014 04:30 pm
Thanks once more Naito for these great shots. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/yabbfiles/Attachments/up040576.gif)

You can also see the many fine cracks in the tiles, as well as slighter and stronger demages and also formerly repaired places and replaced tiles. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/shocked.gif)

This is especially interesting for me, as a former materials researcher, what all these materials had to endure. (http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/gut.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Bubbinski on 12/10/2014 05:36 pm
Here's a pic I took of Atlantis that I put in a montage with the three other orbiters I took closeup pics of:
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Jeff Lerner on 12/13/2014 12:12 am
I visited Atlantis today....and provided Chris with some free advertising...😄
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: 32s on 12/14/2014 11:38 pm
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: 32s on 12/14/2014 11:39 pm
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: 32s on 12/14/2014 11:40 pm
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: 32s on 12/14/2014 11:41 pm
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jacqmans on 04/02/2015 09:16 pm
saw Atlantis again today....
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jacqmans on 04/02/2015 09:21 pm
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 04/02/2015 09:22 pm
Thanks, these are also great pics. (http://www.britmodeller.com/forums/public/style_emoticons/default/speak_cool.gif)

Is the crowd still so big? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jacqmans on 04/02/2015 09:32 pm
Is the crowd still so big? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)
(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)

Yes today there was a large crowd at the VC... So Atlantis is still popular
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 04/03/2015 05:52 am
Is the crowd still so big? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)
(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)

Yes today there was a large crowd at the VC... So Atlantis is still popular

I am a docent at Atlantis and the Apollo Saturn Five Center. The crowds are usually run around 3,500 each day at the KSC Visitors Center. Most of those visit Atlantis and the Saturn Five. The crowds are big however the Visitor's Center has a lot to see thus the crowds at any one exhibit are usually not too bad.  I often talk with guests in the afternoon who have just arrived not knowing that there is too much to see in one day even if they arrive when the gates open and stay until closing!
 
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 04/09/2015 03:28 am
Is the crowd still so big? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)
(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)

Yes today there was a large crowd at the VC... So Atlantis is still popular

I am a docent at Atlantis and the Apollo Saturn Five Center. The crowds are usually run around 3,500 each day at the KSC Visitors Center. Most of those visit Atlantis and the Saturn Five. The crowds are big however the Visitor's Center has a lot to see thus the crowds at any one exhibit are usually not too bad.  I often talk with guests in the afternoon who have just arrived not knowing that there is too much to see in one day even if they arrive when the gates open and stay until closing!

That is why it pays to get the year pass!!  We went back several time to get all of the tours and exhibits.  When we renew next summer, I hope to see Dave!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: jacqmans on 04/09/2015 11:53 pm
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 04/10/2015 09:05 am
Hi Jacques,

wow, you have also noticed this detail, it looks like a damaged AFRSI. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/cool.gif)(http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/public/style_emoticons/default/70.gif)

Here this spot can be seen at a great photo by Naito of November 2014.

(http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1600x1200q90/540/a0a0VQ.jpg)
Source: nasaspaceflight.com (Naito)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: mtakala24 on 04/10/2015 09:10 am
Did this happen in-flight, during the shrink wrap, or while she has been on display?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: roma847 on 04/10/2015 04:54 pm
I guess that this AFRSI blanket was damaged during the flight. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 04/10/2015 11:47 pm
That shows up on my picture from July, 2013.  If I remember right, no tile damage was repair after the last landing.  But would have been if there were other flights scheduled.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 04/14/2015 05:00 pm
I have gone to see Atlantis twice now in 2 years, I was as giddy the second time as I was the first
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: dave1938 on 04/18/2015 05:23 pm
I guess that this AFRSI blanket was damaged during the flight. (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)

(http://scaleworld.forenworld.net/images/smilies/hallo.gif)

The damage Below the AFRSI is tile damage which was probably done post landing during the period when the ground crew was working to open the Crew Module side hatch. I do not see any significant damage to the AFRSI.

It is correct that no heat shield damage was repaired after the last flight.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: NGCHunter on 04/24/2015 03:43 pm
Is the crowd still so big? (http://www.raumfahrer.net/forum/smf/Smileys/yabb/undecided.gif)
There's a way around that (at least for photography purposes), if you're patient and equipped with a tripod.  Just use an astrophotography technique, image stacking, to eliminate the crowd.
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5531/14118016791_c7dd2280a2_c.jpg)
The exhibit looks completely empty, but it was actually a busy day when I took this shot.  It's a two frame mosaic simply because I don't have a lens wide enough to get everything in one frame.  For each frame of the mosaic I stacked 45 exposures, each one was 6 seconds long with the aperture stopped down to f/22 and ISO 100. 

The key to the magic is the fact that the crowds are constantly moving; I performed sigma kappa stacking in Deep Sky Stacker to automatically eliminate anything that changed from image to image.  Since the camera is on a tripod, you can turn the alignment setting to off.  It also helped to use the long exposures since that meant that most people were a blur in each image, diluting the "signal" of the crowd over a larger number of pixels in each image.  People could walk right in front of the camera and it simply didn't matter; over the long run of images it would all average out. 

You can also do really nice group shots with your friends and family in front of Atlantis.  Just leave the camera exactly where it was for the long run of exposures used for stacking and take a regular exposure with the aperture more open and use a flash.  Then just layer yourselves over the final stacked exposure.  It's a bit of a cheat, but less so than the green screen shots they used to do for groups before you could enter the main exhibit hall.

The only bugger is that the screen in the background is constantly changing as well, so the effect it produces when you stack the pictures is quite ugly.  I just layered over it with the screen taken from a single exposure that went into the stack.  It's a bit tricky though because the color of the glare tends to mismatch with the median color obtained from the stack.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Orbiter on 04/24/2015 03:48 pm
Wow! What a genius idea! I'm an astro-stacker myself and use DSS regularly. I can't believe I never thought of that the times I've visited the exhibit.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 06/03/2015 12:12 pm
The exhibit looks completely empty, but it was actually a busy day when I took this shot.  It's a two frame mosaic simply because I don't have a lens wide enough to get everything in one frame.  For each frame of the mosaic I stacked 45 exposures, each one was 6 seconds long with the aperture stopped down to f/22 and ISO 100. 

That's fantastic!!! I would love to see the full res version! =)  It was what I wanted to do, but I was far too excited to have the patience to take that many shots.  The shuttle is surprisingly challenging to shoot with the black tiles and white tiles making for a huge dynamic range, and the size makes for huge depth of field requirements.

Not only was the screen changing, but the lighting changed on the orbiter regularly too.  So very cool =)
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Overflow on 06/28/2015 01:12 pm
Did you guys hear about the new Foreever Rembered exhibit under Atlantis? This is huge. I think I'll be making a trip over there just to see it.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: catdlr on 06/28/2015 01:49 pm
Did you guys hear about the new Foreever Rembered exhibit under Atlantis? This is huge. I think I'll be making a trip over there just to see it.

see here: http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=37896.msg1395000#msg1395000
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 12/15/2015 12:15 am
I am going to make another trip to KSC on Wednesday.   In addition to the tour of the LCC, I am sure we will stop in to see our old friend, Atlantis!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 12/17/2015 10:24 am
I tried out the panorama feature on my camera yesterday.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: ICEINK on 01/05/2016 06:10 pm
I Just had the greatest opportunity to visit Atlantis with my wife Emily this past Holiday, Wow so many people at the visitors center.  Tears of joy were in our eyes as we shuttled through the Atlantis Visit. Wow!!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 05/02/2016 01:55 am
We went to see our old pal Atlantis a few weeks ago.  I noticed what appears to be a strip of rubber or metal hanging from one of the SSME.  I hope she isn't falling apart already.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Hog on 05/02/2016 03:06 pm
We went to see our old pal Atlantis a few weeks ago.  I noticed what appears to be a strip of rubber or metal hanging from one of the SSME.  I hope she isn't falling apart already.
Someone took her out for an orbit and forgot to do a circle check afterwards.

Space Transportation System, such a great synergy of (wo)man and machine, something to never be experienced again.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 05/02/2016 07:23 pm
We went to see our old pal Atlantis a few weeks ago.  I noticed what appears to be a strip of rubber or metal hanging from one of the SSME.  I hope she isn't falling apart already.

That wasnt there the 2 times I have gone to see her, I hope she is not being neglected
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Orbiter on 06/13/2016 11:13 pm
IIRC, those SSME's are not actual flight hardware but mockups as the SSME's will be used on SLS.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 06/13/2016 11:52 pm
IIRC, those SSME's are not actual flight hardware but mockups as the SSME's will be used on SLS.

They WERE flight hardware.  They used old engine bells.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/25/2016 01:33 pm
A new model is sitting under Atlantis.  It is a model of a Dragon docked to a Bigalow module.  It has almost no signage, an may just be parked there for now.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Ronpur50 on 07/25/2016 02:01 pm
I took a few more pictures of Atlantis as well.  This is my last trip on this pass.  We won't renew until December.  I will miss her.....
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: catdlr on 10/16/2017 09:30 pm
bump for a video...

Live From Kennedy Space Centre - Space Shuttle Atlantis

Space Videos
Streamed live Oct 16, 2017

Space Shuttle Atlantis at Kennedy Space Center

https://youtu.be/Eo9hffyl1rE?t=001

https://youtu.be/Eo9hffyl1rE
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Naito on 06/03/2018 02:50 am
I've had the fantastic fortune to visit this lovely lady one more time.  Made another attempt at a super resolution pic, here's a preview of the wide angle view  :)
No I didn't get time to do a complete one from her business end, but I took some extreme closeups anyway for those of us who like to see every little detail.
Will post the rest once I finish stitching them.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: OV135 on 06/08/2018 01:19 am
I saw Atlantis two weeks ago. :) I got tons of reference of her to finish a kit i'm building. :) She's beautiful.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: Semmel on 06/19/2018 02:52 am
I had a blast today at the visitor center in front of Atlantis. There were a hand full of ex shuttle engineers in front and I chatted 2 solid hours with them. It was a uncanny view behind the scenes! I will not reveal their identity, but one of them actually worked on 105 shuttle missions. Being an engineer with some math background was the perfect mix for him, we talked Life, the Universe and everything. The algebra of vector spaces (or lack thereof), JWST vs. Hubble, many things. He said at the end it was his best talk in years. I am so vary glad to have that experience too. Also, he had a real shuttle tile with him and handed it around. I held a real shuttle tile in my hand. It was wrapped in plastic to not be damaged by the people but man that was cool! I had to fight tears at that moment (still have to while writing this). Also he had samples of other parts of the insulation. I dont know any other place like this.

The other engineer showed me bits and pieces of the orbiter that he, personally fixed. The seal between shuttle doors, the radiators on the inside. "see these round patches? I fixed that." followed by a detailed description of how he did it that I cant possibly repeat correctly. We talked about the landing procedures and crew egress protocol. He showed me which panels to remove to get to the OMS tanks to drain them. He explained the need for cooling and how they had to hook up the cooling system very fast after landing..

I never studied the Shuttle in details and I am sure all these things are thoroughly documented somewhere. But I hadnt known but was able to follow and ask meaningful questions. At the risk of repeating myself, I had a blast at it! We went into details of the stuff. And these guys were happy to be able to do it rather than answering only superficial questions. It was a great time!

The saddest moment in these two hours was when a kid, maybe 10 years old, came up to us and asked one of them "are you an astronaut?" He said no, whereupon the kid just turned around. The engineer didnt show any reaction but I felt sad for him. The kid of course is just acting upon expectations and based upon a very simple model of life. In his mind, the astronaut is the cool girl/guy that flies the shuttle. I remember when I was a kid, I didnt even have a recollection that there were other people involved other than the astronauts. Sure someone had build the stuff, but that was utterly irrelevant. That kid could have been me 25 years ago. Its a simple world and thats ok, the gritty details of life will come soon enough. I felt a bit sad for the engineer nevertheless.

The engineers that were there are retired. They do these appearances in public on their own time. These guys deserve a ton of credits and respect for that continued service. And if this post comes across like advertisement, so be it, may the KSC VC have many more customers!
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: penguin44 on 03/23/2019 07:09 pm
Beautiful old girl made me cry when  I arrived. So happy to finally see her. Question, what is the brown stuff on the radiator panel?
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: brettreds2k on 04/17/2019 06:25 pm
Beautiful old girl made me cry when  I arrived. So happy to finally see her. Question, what is the brown stuff on the radiator panel?

I have been fortunate enough to see her twice since Atlantis was put on display, and both times as the screen opened to reveal her, I got tears in my eyes, each time has been so powerful. I want to go back now that they have added the Challenger/Columbia Memorial section on the first level.
Title: Re: Space Shuttle Atlantis @ Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Post by: deadman719 on 05/27/2019 01:10 am
I had the opportunity to visit Atlantis on the 19th of June. Having seen both Discovery and Enterprise, this is by far the best display of a shuttle. During the visit I met a seamstress whom informed me of the labor intensive sewing associated with the themal protection system. She had worked on all the shuttles, except for Challenger. Throughout the conversation, her love of the shuttle was evident.

Attached are a few composite images taken of Atlantis. Hope you all enjoy.

Respectfully,
Rob