jacqmans - 22/2/2008 8:48 AM
Do you have a good view of the Shuttle on the launch pad while taking the bus tour ??
Thanks
Jim - 22/2/2008 3:22 PM
It is covered by the RSS
jacqmans - 22/2/2008 9:35 AMQuoteJim - 22/2/2008 3:22 PM
It is covered by the RSS
I know that, but what I mean is, can you see that...or does the bus stop at such a distance that you only see a dot on the horizon...
shuttlepilot - 2/4/2008 10:45 AM
I'm going to view this launch if it moves to October (if not, I'll be there for STS-126). I hope we will know soon it will move to October or not, as I don't know for what time I should reserve everything and get the visa - you know, I have to queue and fight with those retards at the American Embassy, it's just outrageous that nation which do EVERYTHING what americans want don't have visa-free access to the U.S.! I hope it will change after election.
Me too if launch to be moved to October,which now is almost sure.How many folks travel with You?You know what I mean :cool: Is visa case I agreed 100%
jeff2space - 30/4/2008 8:49 PMYou can.
I've seen two ISS shuttle launches from the NASA Causeway. Thinking about making the trip to see STS-125 launch to Hubble. Anyone know if you can see the difference in launches between an inclination of 28.5 for Hubble as compared to 51.6 for ISS?
jacqmans - 22/2/2008 2:48 PM
how long before launch (days) do bus tours at KSC that go to pad 39A and 39B stop...
As I understand it there are two bus tours (??) one that goes to pad A and one tat goes to pad B (Is that right?) Do you have a good view of the Shuttle on the launch pad while taking the bus tour ??
Thanks
ntschke - 23/5/2008 11:57 AMI'm sure Jorge does and I'm pretty sure he's answered here before, but I can't find the posts...no matter -- he's answered this before on Usenet (JimO is in there, too):QuoteRay Todd - 10/4/2008 12:08 PM Has a launch window been designated for this flight yet? Even an approximate one?
Yet another early morning (night) launch?! Plus it's got a 60 minute window I belive? Does anyone know why there is more flexibility in reach the HST as opposed to the ISS?
ntschke - 23/5/2008 10:57 AMYet another early morning (night) launch?! Plus it's got a 60 minute window I belive? Does anyone know why there is more flexibility in reach the HST as opposed to the ISS?
My only guess for that would be the higher orbit that the HST is in.
astrobrian - 23/5/2008 11:07 PMQuotentschke - 23/5/2008 10:57 AMYet another early morning (night) launch?! Plus it's got a 60 minute window I belive? Does anyone know why there is more flexibility in reach the HST as opposed to the ISS?
My only guess for that would be the higher orbit that the HST is in.
astrobrian - 23/5/2008 12:07 AM
My only guess for that would be the higher orbit that the HST is in.
Without tickets to the Causeway, the next best choices for viewing the shuttle launch are Titusville and the Visitors Center at KSC. The only other way of getting closer than that would be on a boat in the Indain River.Is Indian River fully available for boaters during launch? Or just part of it?
Thank you for bringing me hope, Chris ;D It's exactly as I thought, chances for October 5 launch are very small. My situation would be catastrophic, because I will arrive in Orlando around 6 p.m. on October 6.We're probably going to have to wait and see how things progress...wouldn't be surprised if the programs want to take advantage of any days they can get to increase the margins for 126 in November (which is affected by the 125 date). It may not be a case of either the 8th or the 5th -- the 6th or 7th may be other possibilities.
Flying over from UK (again) for STS-125. Anyone know if the observation gantry is open during and beyond RSS retract or does the loading of the cryo's mean that they close up?? (especially with it begin Atlantis with her extended life tanks)
Thank you for bringing me hope, Chris ;D It's exactly as I thought, chances for October 5 launch are very small. My situation would be catastrophic, because I will arrive in Orlando around 6 p.m. on October 6.
Hi
Does anybody know when launch tickets are set for sale?
/Svend
Flying over from UK (again) for STS-125. Anyone know if the observation gantry is open during and beyond RSS retract or does the loading of the cryo's mean that they close up?? (especially with it begin Atlantis with her extended life tanks)
Aren't the LTT tickets the ones they sell out in a matter of hours? STS-125 is going to have 100,000s going, but you might get lucky if they change the launch date.
They sell out in a matter of minutes, possibly seconds...No not on sale yet.Aren't the LTT tickets the ones they sell out in a matter of hours? STS-125 is going to have 100,000s going, but you might get lucky if they change the launch date.
STS-125's a Night Launch, so that will be interesting.
Per L2, no change to the launch dates. Remain as perviously scheduled.Thank god! I was getting worried.
Wow what a relief, no $900 ticketchanging:-)
Is there anyone who has experienced a night launch before? Any tips, beside the one a few comments above?
I suppose the launchpad will by in full bright light...
Thanks Trekkie
If the launch will be at 1.30 am, what time is the best to take possition without standing on row 25?;-) I suppose a nightlaunch will be even crowded as in daylight?
Is the coastline near Titusville a possible viewoption? (looks so far away from the launchpad;-)
I am hoping for a causeway pass from my senator's office. If that does not work out I think I will make the trip anyway. I figure seeing a night launch from Titusville must be great, even if it is farther away than the last several launches I got to see. The biggest disappointment might be with not hearing that roar until fairly late. My only other launch from US1 was STS-28 way back in 1989. It was a good view but the sound did not reach us until nearly T+90 seconds.
Do they actually "sell" the LTT causeway tickets? Are these the same thing as the "senator office tickets"? And if they do sell them. When and were do they go on sale? Thanks all , this place is great..
Got my vacation already planned just for this trip...Gonna stay at Cocoa Beach somewhere for a few days, Cannot wait.
Was there last year for the Endeavour launch but it got cancelled :(.
Yes your right, It was STS-122. I dont know why i said endeavour. :)
Well I cant wait for this launch, first time and it's at night, i just hope I can get the LTT Tickets..
Might even do the Lunch with Astronaut to, that seems like it could be very interesting, anyone ever do it?
"I have found that the LTT w/Lunch are a little easier to get than just the LTT. LTT sell out within a minute where the LTT w/Lunch tend to take 2 or 3 minutes to sell out. Just my experience. Lunch is alright (food is ok)"
Great tip - It just worked for me cheers Jeff2space
Well my lunch is at 6:30pm, Will I still have a decent amount of time to get a good spot after this event is over?
CAn I skip the lunch part if I wanted to and just go to the Causeway instead? Is it worth it lol? Thanks alot all.
:)
-Jason :)
Yeah I only have one problem now - Have the LTT ticket + L with astronout, but need to find a way to KSC which is tricky as I don't drive (being from the UK we dont all drive :-) .
Any suggestions I guess buses etc don't run on launch days?
I know the placard which has to go in the car window is valid for all passangers to get to KSC, so if anyone is interested in a car share??...but I do only have the one ..
Ordered a couple causeway tickets without the lunch.
This includes admission to KSC, but are the tours normally open on launch day? This will be our first visit to KSC and we plan on taking advantage of everything KSC has to offer (tours, imax, activities, etc.) and it would really be perfect if KSC is fully open on the launch day since the launch is very late and that would leave us the entire day to take advantage of everything KSC has to offer.
I'm also a little confused about the validity of the tickets. The e-mail states that "the tickets are good for use 2 days within a 7 day period or 1 additional day before or within 7 days following the launch".
So basically, the tickets are valid 2 days (is that for the entire KSC visitor complex?). Is that because on launch day, the tours are not offered so they give those who bought launch tickets an extra admission day (since you need to buy an admission to KSC if you want causeway tickets).
Hope the October 8th launch date holds up.
Hey folks, first time poster here (and new L2 member) - long time space geek and lurker. (Reading a couple good geek books now in fact, the main one is the run down on the Russian Buran program)
I picked up 2 LTT tickets this morning to check out the launch. I am in WI and am planning to drive down a couple days before for some vacation and such. About how early is it recommended to be at the LTT viewing location to get a good seat/view. What restrictions are there on the use of tripods for a camera? I have been to the KSC visitors center as recently as July, but never down there for a launch.
I am also a learning photo geek, any tips/tricks DLSR settings/lenses that are recommended to take night photo's of the shuttle launch? I am assuming its tricky to get a great shot due to the contrast of the bright exhaust and the pitch black night.
I am also thinking of getting on the "Up Close" tour on the 7th to get some nice pics of 2 shuttles on the pad for the last time ever. Which is the primary reason I am heading down to the cape for this... While I understand the STS system in general is considered a failure on many levels, its still what I've grown up with and really want to be there for this last time we will have 2 of them parked on the pads.
From what I've been reading most hotels in the Cocoa Beach area are pretty run down... Any suggestions on a nicer Hotel in the area? We are thinking of staying in Melbourne at a nice 4 star place on the ocean.
Thanks and this site is a wealth of information!
Hey folks, first time poster here (and new L2 member) - long time space geek and lurker. (Reading a couple good geek books now in fact, the main one is the run down on the Russian Buran program)
I picked up 2 LTT tickets this morning to check out the launch. I am in WI and am planning to drive down a couple days before for some vacation and such. About how early is it recommended to be at the LTT viewing location to get a good seat/view. What restrictions are there on the use of tripods for a camera? I have been to the KSC visitors center as recently as July, but never down there for a launch.
I am also a learning photo geek, any tips/tricks DLSR settings/lenses that are recommended to take night photo's of the shuttle launch? I am assuming its tricky to get a great shot due to the contrast of the bright exhaust and the pitch black night.
I am also thinking of getting on the "Up Close" tour on the 7th to get some nice pics of 2 shuttles on the pad for the last time ever. Which is the primary reason I am heading down to the cape for this... While I understand the STS system in general is considered a failure on many levels, its still what I've grown up with and really want to be there for this last time we will have 2 of them parked on the pads.
From what I've been reading most hotels in the Cocoa Beach area are pretty run down... Any suggestions on a nicer Hotel in the area? We are thinking of staying in Melbourne at a nice 4 star place on the ocean.
Thanks and this site is a wealth of information!
Welcome fellow Wisconsinite!
Check when you get to KSCVC to see when buses start leaving for the causeway. Probably won't be until 10 or 11 PM. Try to get on the bus as soon as you can. Definitely take a tripod and get up front by the ropes. Also recommend a remote for your camera if you can get one so you can take pictures and watch the launch without looking through the camera. I've seen three launches and the best one was when I wasn't concerned about taking pictures. Take pics of shuttles on pad and play with the settings until your happy with it.
Don't take the "Up Close" tour on the 7th. The will be fueling the shuttle and they will not take you past the pads. They will only stop at the opservation gantry which you can get to through the free KSC tour. I plan to take the "Up Close" tour on the 8th after the launch, hoping they'll go past the pads then and at least see Endeavour up close.
You can find some nice hotels on Cocoa Beach.
Observation gantry also closed prior to RSS retract and therefore prior to tanking (fueling). I went to KSC for STS-123 which was a similar launch time to STS-125 and the observation Gantry closed early afternoon. In addition I think your arrival time on your car pass will not be before late afternoon. If its just the pad you want to see then you should definately take the 'Up Close tour' on your return day however if you want to see Endeavour the up close tour only takes you to the perimeter fence of Pad A not Pad B so you would need to take the standard tour in addition (included in admission) so leave enough time to do both. Hope this helps. Enjoy :-)
Observation gantry also closed prior to RSS retract and therefore prior to tanking (fueling). I went to KSC for STS-123 which was a similar launch time to STS-125 and the observation Gantry closed early afternoon. In addition I think your arrival time on your car pass will not be before late afternoon. If its just the pad you want to see then you should definately take the 'Up Close tour' on your return day however if you want to see Endeavour the up close tour only takes you to the perimeter fence of Pad A not Pad B so you would need to take the standard tour in addition (included in admission) so leave enough time to do both. Hope this helps. Enjoy :-)
The gantry may still be open the morning of the 7th when KSCVC opens. Car pass will tell you the latest you can arrive but you can get there earlier. When I took the Up Close Tour in 2006 we went past both pads...not sure if that has changed.
How are you going to get there? As far as I know you can't be on the beaches along KSC or CCAFS. You have to be quite a ways north.
I'm in Australia, and I read on the KSC website that the LTT tickets are shipped to your home address - so for people travelling from outside the US, when will your ticket package arrive, if they are only sent out from 22nd September ?
I'm not too sure about how that works, what with the anguish of the mail arriving in plenty of time so you have your launch ticket package in your hot little hand before booking and boarding the flight over there.
I'm in Australia, and I read on the KSC website that the LTT tickets are shipped to your home address - so for people travelling from outside the US, when will your ticket package arrive, if they are only sent out from 22nd September ?
I'm not too sure about how that works, what with the anguish of the mail arriving in plenty of time so you have your launch ticket package in your hot little hand before booking and boarding the flight over there.
I had to enter when I was leaving for the launch when i bought my tickets. So I entered the date when I was leaving home (i live in Denmark). Hope they use it to ensure that I get the tickets in time. :)
Hi!
I have a schedule constraint and would only be able to arrive in Titusville at around 12:30am on October 8th. Is it doable? I mean, is it possible to arrive that late, find a place to park and, most of all, a place to see the launch well?
thanks for the advice
Mathieu
Hi, new to this forum which i discovered while googling for launch info,
I tried to get LTT:s for STS-125 online when they went on sale but half an hour before it was just impossible to access the webpage - later when I got in all LTT:s were sold out so I bought mine from grayline tours instead.
A bit more expensive but insignificant compared to the cost of flying over from Sweden, probably going to stay and watch the landing as well.
Any other scandinavians who are going to watch the launch?
Mats
If the shuttle is delayed, will the launchtime change also?
If the shuttle is delayed, will the launchtime change also?
So actuately a delay till oct 11 is 4 more days instead of 3..? Early morning oct 8 -late evening oct 11...Depends on whether it's the window that opens at 0003 local or the one that opens at 2336 local. (Former is three days, latter is four.)
Any idea if the 24hr Atlantis rollout delay will have any impact on the launch date?
I'm just trying to find out how many contingency days are left and what may cause a further delay in the launch date.
Any idea if the 24hr Atlantis rollout delay will have any impact on the launch date?
I'm just trying to find out how many contingency days are left and what may cause a further delay in the launch date.
Hi guys,
I've been following this thread and managed to get 2 STS-125 causeway launch tickets including the astronaut lunch. It will be my first shuttle launch and I'm really looking forward to it. It should be an awesome sight, especially given that it's a night launch.
For the more seasoned campaigners, when is the best time to take the gamble and book flights/accommodation? Is it pretty safe once the shuttle has rolled to the pad or is there some other landmark in the processing flow I should wait for before committing to flights and hotels? I understand that issues can delay launch all the way up to T-0, just looking for advice on when the launch date is solid enough to start making travel arrangements.
Even in the US it's tough to book domestic flights at a reasonable cost with only the time you'd have after the FRR.
There's certainly plenty available, but if you want a decent price you've got to book early. And "book early" and "shuttle launch" don't belong in the same sentence. ;)
It has slipped from the 8th. At least 10-11th, maybe a bit more.
Hi guys,
I've been following this thread and managed to get 2 STS-125 causeway launch tickets including the astronaut lunch. It will be my first shuttle launch and I'm really looking forward to it. It should be an awesome sight, especially given that it's a night launch.
For the more seasoned campaigners, when is the best time to take the gamble and book flights/accommodation? Is it pretty safe once the shuttle has rolled to the pad or is there some other landmark in the processing flow I should wait for before committing to flights and hotels? I understand that issues can delay launch all the way up to T-0, just looking for advice on when the launch date is solid enough to start making travel arrangements.
Definately after rollout. If you can wait that long, after the Flight Readiness Review offers a bit more security on hitting the launch date (but never count on it you will only be disappointed). I usually book my flight after rollout because flights from the UK get expensive the closer to the flight date you book or I would wait. As someone has already said this is certainly going to be toughest trip I have ever planned. Not only Atlantis but Endeavour has got to be in good shape and with all the storm systems lurking in the Atlantic which could cause a rollback nearer to launch....... Im sure it will make the experience all the more rewarding when it all comes together :-)
It has slipped from the 8th. At least 10-11th, maybe a bit more.
100 percent not going to be the 8th now.
There's certainly plenty available, but if you want a decent price you've got to book early. And "book early" and "shuttle launch" don't belong in the same sentence. ;)
It has slipped from the 8th. At least 10-11th, maybe a bit more.
100 percent not going to be the 8th now.
Thanks Chris. These updates are invaluable for those of us traveling from far afield and trying to make arrangements. Keep 'em coming! Thanks.
It actually said dispatched by 22nd Sept so sounds like they are on the way to you. Always a relief when you get them in your hand. :)
Now mine are on the way too. :)Did you buy your tickets online when they were released? I wasn't even able to get on the webpage until they were sold out.
Thanks Astrobrian. Does anyone know how close to launch the tours operate?
I have a choice of a public viewing site (e.g. Titusville) for STS-125 or possible Congressional tickets for STS-126. I liked STS-125 because of the larger launch window and seeing two shuttles on the pads at once. Would it be better to wait for the better view if I can get an up-close spot for 126?
I live in the US, so travel is less of a problem.
bob
I know the 6 mile NASA Causeway tickets sold out quickly.
Does any one know how many of these bus tickets are sold and what time of the day it first gets posted for sale on the KSC Visitors Complex web site.
I am going to KSC for STS-125, but for some reason I did not get the e-mail notification that the NASA causeway tickets were on sale on the KSC VC web site.
Does any one know how many of these bus tickets are sold and what time of the day it first gets posted for sale on the KSC Visitors Complex web site.
I am going to KSC for STS-125, but for some reason I did not get the e-mail notification that the NASA causeway tickets were on sale on the KSC VC web site.
How does some one get a congressional pass, which I believe would be at the 3 mile limit?
In case I ever have a chance to come see a launch, I take it I'd have zero chance of getting one of these tickets (not having a congress person)?
I suppose that's fair as non of my tax dollars (£ actually) go to pay for the SSP.
However, when I visited Capitol Hill (2000), I got a pass (for the underground train ride, cutting out all the queues) from a representative or senator (can't remember which) set aside for non US citizens. No similar system?
Call now and see if you can reschedule your return flight. Usually if you call early enough ahead you can get them changed to a different flight. Sometimes they charge you a fee...if you pester them you might get it waived though. It's usually 10% or 15% of the ticket value to change the flight, this depends on the airline however.
Try to do this, as it's definitely worth the extra bit of money. You won't need to waste the tickets, you can get them changed.
Are KSC LTT tickets transferable in case someone can't use theirs?
Are KSC LTT tickets transferable in case someone can't use theirs? ;)
Thanks for the info. I have already seen one on ebay for $900, if I was reading it correctly. I'm not that desperate! ;) I can understand reselling is prohibited but I wondered if I were to encounter someone who can't make the trip, could they just give the ticket to me? Does the ticket or pass have a name on it, or does your name have to be on a check list before they can let you on the bus? I'm just trying to get some info as I look over my options.
I kind of jumped the gun and bought a vacation package when the launch was still scheduled for early morning Oct 8th. The package I bought (which in non-refundable BTW) is for Oct 6th to the 10th. My plane leaves from Orlando at 5:30 pm on the 10th. So, if the shuttle lifts off early morning on the 10th I will be fine, but if it doesn't I will miss my flight. I can't afford to waste the plane tickets and stay another day.
PG
Some one responded to that other post stating there was a public beach north of launch pads that offers good views of pads 39 a&b.Probably referring to the Canaveral National Seashore.
Some one responded to that other post stating there was a public beach north of launch pads that offers good views of pads 39 a&b.
I can't find that thread and response. Does any one recall the name of the beach? The responder mentioned this beach is noted for some nude beach goers being common to this beach.
Some one responded to that other post stating there was a public beach north of launch pads that offers good views of pads 39 a&b.
I can't find that thread and response. Does any one recall the name of the beach? The responder mentioned this beach is noted for some nude beach goers being common to this beach.
I remember seeing the thread. I think it was Playalinda Beach. If you go on Google earth you can see the perimeter fence and a picture that someone has posted of Atlantis on the pad from STS-115.
Some one responded to that other post stating there was a public beach north of launch pads that offers good views of pads 39 a&b.
I can't find that thread and response. Does any one recall the name of the beach? The responder mentioned this beach is noted for some nude beach goers being common to this beach.
I remember seeing the thread. I think it was Playalinda Beach. If you go on Google earth you can see the perimeter fence and a picture that someone has posted of Atlantis on the pad from STS-115.
Thank you very much.
Some one responded to that other post stating there was a public beach north of launch pads that offers good views of pads 39 a&b.
I can't find that thread and response. Does any one recall the name of the beach? The responder mentioned this beach is noted for some nude beach goers being common to this beach.
I remember seeing the thread. I think it was Playalinda Beach. If you go on Google earth you can see the perimeter fence and a picture that someone has posted of Atlantis on the pad from STS-115.
Thank you very much.
Here's the link to the post in question. It is Playalinda beach.
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=12487.285
Some one responded to that other post stating there was a public beach north of launch pads that offers good views of pads 39 a&b.
I can't find that thread and response. Does any one recall the name of the beach? The responder mentioned this beach is noted for some nude beach goers being common to this beach.
I remember seeing the thread. I think it was Playalinda Beach. If you go on Google earth you can see the perimeter fence and a picture that someone has posted of Atlantis on the pad from STS-115.
Thank you very much.
Here's the link to the post in question. It is Playalinda beach.
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=12487.285
Does anyone know if it will be open on the 8th with it being so close to launch?
They close the beach 3 to 4 days before launch
Some one responded to that other post stating there was a public beach north of launch pads that offers good views of pads 39 a&b.
I can't find that thread and response. Does any one recall the name of the beach? The responder mentioned this beach is noted for some nude beach goers being common to this beach.
I remember seeing the thread. I think it was Playalinda Beach. If you go on Google earth you can see the perimeter fence and a picture that someone has posted of Atlantis on the pad from STS-115.
Hi
We booked the vip tour at grayline to the causeway. Anybody here who has done that before?
As newbe's we could ask ourselves..how do we find the right bus back in the dark after the launch..:-)
Thanks Yorky
My English is perhaps not that good, but from the grayline site... is it possible to visit the visitorcentre before the launch, or is it better to do that the next day?
What happens in the period between 4 pm and the launchtime?
We do have admission to KSC as well so I hope we can visit it before launch and the day after;-)
We'll arrive in Miam october 5 and in Orlando october 8, why?
Am I right in saying that there is a PA system set up on the Causeway for the launch commentary? Is it the live audio feed from NASA TV, including all the holds and polls?
Do you have any pictures of how people are situated on the causeway for the launch? just curious how much of a mob it is.
Do you have any pictures of how people are situated on the causeway for the launch? just curious how much of a mob it is.
Hi
We booked the vip tour at grayline to the causeway. Anybody here who has done that before?
As newbe's we could ask ourselves..how do we find the right bus back in the dark after the launch..:-)
I've only ever been on KSC buses but they generally ask you to stay in the section of the causeway directly next to your bus. Which can be unfortunate because a number of small islands block the view slightly. You can still see the vehicle just not the base of the pad even if obstructed so its a pretty good view from where ever you are. Keep your fingers crossed for a position on the western end of the causeway because that can be up to half a mile closer which doesnt sound a lot but its acually close to 10% closer.
I hope there'll be more forum members at the same tour! (must be;-)I'm going on the same tour, grayline has confirmed the launch date on the 10th - pickup about 4 - 5 pm on the 9th.
Where on causeway is the countdown clock? Could we walk up to it and pose for pictures?Are you talking about the clock we see on TV? If so, that's at the press site, which is a different area than the causeway viewing site.
Where on causeway is the countdown clock? Could we walk up to it and pose for pictures?
Yes I do, check back tonight and I will post a couple...
Ray.Do you have any pictures of how people are situated on the causeway for the launch? just curious how much of a mob it is.
Hope this gives you some idea of what to expect. It is quite crowded. I wouldn't go down to the shore line as it get's crowded. We (my son and I) stayed back near the road and got a great view and moved away from the engine noise of the various buses and could hear the countdown.
Ray.
Can you post a map (part of a map) and then mark the spot were you were and took the pictures from...That launch photo is very nice, so the spot were you were has a good sight of the launch pad...good info that I can use for my trip to Florida for STS-126...
You are correct. The only problem that I had with the PA system was that the speakers were across the street from where the public was and in engine noise from the buses drowned out what was being said. If you found a good place to set, you could hear fine.
What I found funny was that you also heard advisory notices to the effect that 'launches are inherently dangerous and poses a threat to anyone nearby' and the fact that the exhaust cloud contains droplets of acid and should an explosion occur to get back on the bus as soon as possible. I guess the attorneys had to have their say in this. This, by the way, wasn't bad, I just thought it was funny.
The first picture I uploaded shows where the speakers are in relation to the buses. The people are obviously on the other side of the buses.
The second picture shows the view of the launch pad from the causeway.
Hope this helps.
Am I right in saying that there is a PA system set up on the Causeway for the launch commentary? Is it the live audio feed from NASA TV, including all the holds and polls?
What camera and what zoom lens were used to take the picture?
Thanks,
What camera and what zoom lens were used to take the picture?
Thanks,
After you download (open) the photo, right click on it, select Properties, Summary tab, Advanced. It will give you all the info.
Okay, so I've never been to a launch, but have wanted to since I went to space camp a LONG time ago. I was able to manipulate an Orlando Vacation for Oct 7-14 and planned it back in March.
I contacted my Senator/Representative, they contacted Nasa and said "they'd be in touch about a month before the launch". This month, I followed up and they said they still had my request, but do not know if they can provide tickets.
I get an e-mail from Delaware North saying tickets are going on sale, I login at the appointed time and WOO HOO, get 2 LTT tickets, the arrived a little while ago with car placard and everything...so I figure FINALLY, I'm gonna get to see a launch.
Fast forward to last Tuesday, I get an invitation to the launch from NASA...my Senator came through! I must say, I'm surprised..I thought it was a lost cause.
My Question: Can I return the LTT tickets if I got VIP passes?
Beef
I had to put in my request in April. I requested to view a shuttle launch in "October", so when STS-125 was moved to October, my request was still valid. Still, it wasn't until this week that they could tell me.
beef
Do any of you guys in the know have an idea when a decision may be made on the potential launch delay? - Are there specific meetings that would need to happen first?
I'm in the UK and luckily work have decided to send me to Florida for a few days, a 24 hour delay to the launch and I can go see it. Are there any official / tour options for seeing it still left this late in the day?
Thanks.. Great site by the way!
Steve
I bought Launch Transportation Tickets including Dine with an Astronaut when they were put on sale. At that time the launch were set to early October 8th so the Dine with an Astronaut event were set for the evening of October 7th. I had the impression that the Dine with and Astronaut event followed the launch date in the event of a delayed launch. This would now mean that the Dine with and Astronaut event would be on October 14th but when I look at the tickets it explicitly says “Valid on: 10/07/08”. Does anybody know if I understand it correctly that I both need to be at KSC on October 7th and on October 14th if I want to make use of my Dine with an Astronaut tickets as well as of course seeing the launch?
/Svend
P.S. I'm aware of the nighttime visibility up the coast ( http://a52.g.akamaitech.net/f/52/827/1d/www.space.com/images/061205_shuttle_vismap_02.jpg ), and if the skies are clear I'll be heading outside after SRB sep :)
Hi all -
I've got a question about viewing the shuttle launch, but kind of the reverse of what this forum means by it.
I will be in Manhattan on the nights of the 14th and the 15th. I'm not sure if I'll have internet access, and certainly can't count on NASA TV on the hotel cable, so that safest thing for me to do would be to plan to watch the launch at some public location. I know that science museums sometimes have projection screens set up for this. Is anyone aware of something like this in New York? I've already searched a few NY museums (including AMNH / Hayden) and haven't found anything.
- Chris
P.S. I'm aware of the nighttime visibility up the coast ( http://a52.g.akamaitech.net/f/52/827/1d/www.space.com/images/061205_shuttle_vismap_02.jpg ), and if the skies are clear I'll be heading outside after SRB sep :)
STS-125 won't be heading up the east coast. It's orbit is in a lower inclination than the trips to the ISS, so we won't be seeing it from the NYC area.
Does anyone know if STS-126 LTT Causeway Tickets have gone on sale yet? Thanks
-Jason
If the congressional tickets don't come through I'll try to get the causeway tickets immediately after they're made available for the (presumably May) opportunity, but I understand you have to snap them up within 2 hours or else they'll be gone.
If the congressional tickets don't come through I'll try to get the causeway tickets immediately after they're made available for the (presumably May) opportunity, but I understand you have to snap them up within 2 hours or else they'll be gone.
Does anybody know if one will be able to see both Atlantis and Endeavour on the pads from Titusville?
Hey guys, I have 2 VIP tix for the STS 125 launch. PM me or email if you are interested.
People seem to be booking their spots for this one already, so here's the associated thread.
I'm looking for two Causeway tickets for the May 12th launch.
Anyone selling?
thanks,
Lory
I look forward not just to the launch but to seeing two shuttles on two pads...when I took the bus tour of several facilities (the viewing area by Pad 39A, the space station processing facility, etc.) I was able to see Atlantis about 30 hours before her very late afternoon launch on STS-117, with the RSS still wrapped around the orbiter.
Question for everyone: if I take the KSC tour buses again (and I will), how close can I expect to get to Pad 39B?
anyone got a sts-125 LTT ticket (or VIP, i'm not fussy ;) ) they want to get rid of?
i just bought one through ebay, before noticing it was for the visitor complex, not the causeway..doh! :P
Question - Is there any way for the public to see a rollover? I'll be in Florida around the time of Endeavour's LON-400 rollover to the VAB, and it'd be cool to see.
Oh you lucky...
I know the standard KSC tour goes around the VAB and used to give views (not sure how great) of the OPF...will that part be re-routed during rollover? If not, it seems just as simple as getting on the tour bus at the right time and sitting on the right side.
Question for everyone: if I take the KSC tour buses again (and I will), how close can I expect to get to Pad 39B?
Also for all of us visiting for this launch, don't forget about seeing those new 600 foot tall lightning towers! Those will make the Pad 39B area very hard to miss.
Just thought of something.....
I have the LTT tickets, the flight, the car, the motel booked. Everything's all lined up. But I don't have a car placard for KSCVC. I've checked the KSC VC web site and haven't seen anything so far on that. I imagine that I'd need one for launch day unless I could take a bus to the KSC VC....does SCAT (Brevard's bus system) go to KSC? Worst case I suppose I could take a taxi or just watch from Space View park in Titusville.
Chris G - Assuming I was there for rollout (depending on rollout date there's a chance), do the bus tours still run at all times? The gantry is right next to the crawlerway - so say I were to take one of the first tours in the morning, would I actually be that close to the vehicle rolling out?
Yorky - how is the view from Playalinda as compared to the stop on the Up Close tour (if you've ever been on it)? Is that picture taken from an area open to the public? Also, how is the view of Pad A from the beach?
Cool, thanks! It's going to depend on rollout date then.
Being 2-3 miles away I assume Playalinda Beach doesn't extend directly behind the pads? That beach must be restricted?
What about the ocean directly behind the pads? Wouldn't make a bad sailing trip.
Yorky - how is the view from Playalinda as compared to the stop on the Up Close tour (if you've ever been on it)? Is that picture taken from an area open to the public? Also, how is the view of Pad A from the beach?
fingers crossed for a smooth countdown...
I've got 4 KSC VC LTTs (and vehicle placard) for STS-125 that I'm considering parting with. I don't really want to deal with splitting them up, though.
I have 2 Launch Transportation Tickets with vehicle placard for sale. I wish I could make to the launch but can't. PM me if interested.Hi...PMed last night. We would be very inerested in LTT tickets...we'll be in Cocoa Beach for the week. Please let us know if they are still available. Thanks...keeping our fingers crossed!!!
anyone got a sts-125 LTT ticket (or VIP, i'm not fussy ;) ) they want to get rid of?
i just bought one through ebay, before noticing it was for the visitor complex, not the causeway..doh! :P
I've got 4 KSC VC LTTs (and vehicle placard) for STS-125 that I'm considering parting with. I don't really want to deal with splitting them up, though.
I have 2 LTT tickets. I thought they were sold a few weeks ago, but the deal fell through. PM me.I guess I'm PM challenged....could you help me out with details of buying your tickets?
First come first serve.
Thanks,
Joe
OK. Seeing as how we're now one month out from the scheduled launch of STS-125 I thought it time to announce that I'm, once again, offering to put together a dinner for NSF members the day before launch. Anyone who is coming over, down, up, (sideways? lol) for this launch (as well as those who live in the area) who are interested in meeting up with follow NSF members for dinner just send me a PM. I will take care of all the coordination involved and inform you in a timely manner.
I did this once before back in November for STS-126 and it was a great success! I was not able to offer this for STS-119 for various reason but I figure it would be GREAT to meet for the final Hubble mission!
For those of you requiring advanced notice on times and such, I will schedule dinner at a restaurant in Titusville for 6pm-ish the DAY BEFORE LAUNCH.
For all of you who are traveling for this launch, I wish you all safe travels.
-- Chris G.
I know a few people that might be attending this launch.. and as it's not going to the ISS, and the inclination is different, will you still get a good view from Titusville? Or is there an optimal point around the launch site that you can attend as a spectator?
I've not gone to a launch, nor seen anything other than the ISS launches...
Thanks much.
Chris, I also PM'd you about the dinner.You'd need a more or less north-facing view of the pad in order to see much. From Titusville, which faces east to the pads, the vehicle is blocked by both the Fixed Service Structure and the RSS (in mate position, park position, and in between).
Also, I thought I read somewhere yesterday that RSS to park was sometime around 5 PM. If you can watch this from across the water, I sure would like to get some pictures. If that's possible, anyone interested in meeting up somewhere to watch and then heading to dinner from there?
But Chris de night before launch should you not be at the press site, or RSS retract ?..
If it's not too steamy, the sight of the pad lit up with the floodlights on is still spectacular.
If I can get down there for the dinner, I would want to have a look from SR-1 after it gets dark, regardless.
If you're using an SLR camera (digital), what lenses did you use? He's particularly interested in what size telephoto you used, and if you were pleased with the results.
Guess what....those of us visiting for the STS-125 launch MIGHT get a two-fer:Oh That would be soooo cool!!!
The Delta 4 (medium) that was supposed to launch the GOES satellite just got delayed from 4/28 to the week of 5/12. If this is the case, I'm hoping to get a good look at both launches, and I'll check the rest of this forum to see what viewing info there is for ELV launches.
RSS retract is ~5pm and I'll be at Pad-A for that.
Where would be the best place to see the RSS retract from (aside from the pad itself... ;) )? Would they still be running bus tours from the visitor center at that time? The last tour leaves at 3.45 and runs for approx 2 hours, at least on a regular day...
Back on topic - tomorrow it'll be one month till the Hubble servicing mission blasts off!
Thanks SpaceCat,
Hopefully they won't move the line north of the canal (and the boat launch). Good advice on the mosquito crowd. I'll be sure to come prepared! Should we be on the look out for aligators as well? (joking....I think)
For anybody who was planning to take advantage of any of the KSC tours (Up Close and Then & Now) while in town, I just gave a call down there to see if there are any restrictions in place.
Up Close tour: will run as normal day before the launch, and resume as normal day after the launch (assuming the launch is nominal).
Cape Canaveral Then & Now: will run the day before STS-125 launch, with some restrictions due to the live Delta IV. They'll know the restrictions better about a week and a half before that launch. Will not run that tour once they start tanking. (Is the final launch day set yet? Chris G. seemed to think 5/15.)
Thanks SpaceCat,
Hopefully they won't move the line north of the canal (and the boat launch). Good advice on the mosquito crowd. I'll be sure to come prepared! Should we be on the look out for aligators as well? (joking....I think)
better pack some alligator spray, just to be safe. :o
LMSenus(my better half) & I have causeway tix for '125. I'll have multiple cameras going with lenses up to 1500mm for photos to share here after. Hopefully the NSF dinner will also take place and provide a chance to get Xenon shots of the shutles on the pads. If not, we'll be going over any way for the Xenons of the two orbiters Mon. night from SR-1.LSenus,
You seem like you've been through this before. For those of us who'll be doing this for the first time, are you talking about going to a spot for night photos of the orbiters? If so, I'd really appreciate the chance to tag along.
LSenus,
You seem like you've been through this before. For those of us who'll be doing this for the first time, are you talking about going to a spot for night photos of the orbiters? If so, I'd really appreciate the chance to tag along.
Darmok
FYI, unless they're doing something different than prior occasions, only Atlantis/Pad A will get the spotlight treatment.
LSenus,
You seem like you've been through this before. For those of us who'll be doing this for the first time, are you talking about going to a spot for night photos of the orbiters? If so, I'd really appreciate the chance to tag along.
Darmok
This will be our first launch as well, but we aren't going to miss any opportunity for photos. The chance to see two orbiters on the pads simultaneously doesn’t occur all that often. Monday night will be going to Titusville regardless of an NSF dinner. We’ve been doing extensive research for shot locations & angles. According to Launch Photography.com (http://www.launchphotography.com/Shuttle_Launch_Viewing.html) the best place for off-site viewing is Space View Park. We’ll be heading there Monday night for photos of the orbiters lit up with the Xenons. Then, as mentioned previously, we have causeway tix for the actual launch itself.
We are planning on returning the day after the launch to do the “Then & Now” tour, and if time permits, the “Up Close” tour after that. There may be some restrictions for the “Then & Now” due to the Delta IV launch with the GOES sat. occurring later that week. Lisa is checking with the NASA tour folks every couple of days for more info.
On the STS-125 launch day, only the Pad A RSS will be retracted. The Pad B RSS will still be extended around Endeavour. The RSS is usually rotated to the Park position about 20-22 hours before launch and the plan for STS-400 is to hold further processing at Call To Station(CTS) for Launch Countdown.FYI, unless they're doing something different than prior occasions, only Atlantis/Pad A will get the spotlight treatment.
Thanks! Good to know about the lighting. We'll plan on getting there slightly earlier to catch clear shots of both orbiters on the pads, and then wait for the lights to come up.
On the STS-125 launch day, only the Pad A RSS will be retracted. The Pad B RSS will still be extended around Endeavour.Yeah, today is the only time both Rotating Service Structures will be retracted at the same time (with vehicles at the pad). For the 125 launch, the STS-400 shuttle will look unexceptional for a typical day in the middle of a pad flow.
On the STS-125 launch day, only the Pad A RSS will be retracted. The Pad B RSS will still be extended around Endeavour.Yeah, today is the only time both Rotating Service Structures will be retracted at the same time (with vehicles at the pad). For the 125 launch, the STS-400 shuttle will look unexceptional for a typical day in the middle of a pad flow.
As noted before, you'd need a north-facing location to see the orbiter with the RSS retracted, anyway. Titusville doesn't provide a view like that. Closest place is the causeway.
Maybe Govt. Rd., N. Courtenay Pkwy (if they're open), or Port Canaveral (a little far) as alternates then.Haven't been over to Port Canaveral for a Delta launch, so don't know about the view of the Shuttle pads from there, but it's difficult to see the pads on S.R. 3, as they are obscured by the "scrub brush line." Govt Rd may be open for a while, but that's as far north as you can get on S.R. 3 unless you work at the Space Center. That's over by the Visitor's Complex and you can't see the pads from there. Up on the bridges over the intercoastal waterway might provide a glimpse, but I'm usually trying to concentrate on driving while going over them.
I figured from looking at Google Earth that SR-3 might have a Tree-line/Brush-line problem. Port C. sounds like a no go because of the combination of the distance and the RSS being in the way. The 1500mm should deal with the 12-13 miles if I could get high enough, but if I'm going to have the RSS in the way any way, might as well hit SR-1 and see what’s available.Pretty sure that is the same causeway we saw 126 from, was a good show there but not sure on how the different orbit would change where she goes and whether or not the srb plume would get in the way of things once she gets high enough.
The Miracle City Mall may provide some elevation with a line of sight north of the VAB and south of the end of the runway, depending of course on vegetation.
Does anyone know about 401/402 Max Brewer Mem. Pkwy.? Does it get closed at some time prior to a launch? Where do the closures happen?
I figured from looking at Google Earth that SR-3 might have a Tree-line/Brush-line problem. Port C. sounds like a no go because of the combination of the distance and the RSS being in the way. The 1500mm should deal with the 12-13 miles if I could get high enough, but if I'm going to have the RSS in the way any way, might as well hit SR-1 and see what’s available.Pretty sure that is the same causeway we saw 126 from, was a good show there but not sure on how the different orbit would change where she goes and whether or not the srb plume would get in the way of things once she gets high enough.
The Miracle City Mall may provide some elevation with a line of sight north of the VAB and south of the end of the runway, depending of course on vegetation.
Does anyone know about 401/402 Max Brewer Mem. Pkwy.? Does it get closed at some time prior to a launch? Where do the closures happen?
Anyone on here remember the 109 launch to provide insight on this?
Is there any point getting the up-close tour at all? Does it go anywhere that the regular tour wouldn't go, apart from the pads?
Looking on the bright side, even the regular tour is still going to get a lot closer to a shuttle than i am right now... ;)
Hello together.
For the first time I will see a launch. I'm coming from Germany and have no idea where the best place is to see the lift off. I have booked a hotel in Cocoa Beach. I hope, somebody can give me some hints.
Thank you!!
I figured from looking at Google Earth that SR-3 might have a Tree-line/Brush-line problem. Port C. sounds like a no go because of the combination of the distance and the RSS being in the way. The 1500mm should deal with the 12-13 miles if I could get high enough, but if I'm going to have the RSS in the way any way, might as well hit SR-1 and see what’s available.Pretty sure that is the same causeway we saw 126 from, was a good show there but not sure on how the different orbit would change where she goes and whether or not the srb plume would get in the way of things once she gets high enough.
The Miracle City Mall may provide some elevation with a line of sight north of the VAB and south of the end of the runway, depending of course on vegetation.
Does anyone know about 401/402 Max Brewer Mem. Pkwy.? Does it get closed at some time prior to a launch? Where do the closures happen?
Anyone on here remember the 109 launch to provide insight on this?
A military operation.....I checked the US launch schedule thread and it looks like there are a couple of DOD launches scheduled for this summer (X-37 and STSS). Has one of them been moved up? Or is this something else, like a missile test?Not sure, but even before the latest news on the Delta 4, the Shuttle program showed the range as "unavailable" from May 14 through May 19 and the Delta had reserved the range for the 20th and 21st.
Another question I have - When do they bring in the recovered booster rockets? It sounds like an interesting thing to watch. I'm assuming the best place to see this is Jetty Park?
No, they will not go to the pad until after Endeavour is moved from Pad B. So up close tours won't go to the pads from now until then.
Apollo/Saturn V center is included with the general tour, as are LC-39 Observation Gantry and SSPF. Up Close Tour will make a stop at the causeway, a stop at the VAB (regular tour just drives you around it), and a trip to the SLF.
PS we'll down again for this launch, just got confirmation for Bananna Creek viewing. Who's in charge of Happy Hour this time?Chris Gebhardt is coordinating. Send him a PM and join the gang!
Andrew is that correct? Up close tours will not get any closer to the pads than the standard tour until AFTER launch?
I thought I read somewhere that up until launch day you could get the upclose tour and see the shuttles for the beach camera location as well?
how long do they wait before reopening the beach after the launch? Endeavour's still going to be on Pad B for while, i take it?
If 3 days before launch playalinda beach closes, is that on Friday or on Saturday? Does anyone know if they close it in the morning or at night? We'll be there on Friday and I'd like to drive over and take some pictures if it's open.
I recall a discussion that the Shuttle will reenter over the USA for this mission - one last time - if so, any preliminary ground tracks?
Anyone going to attempt to get a hi-res video(s) of it?
(I am amazed that NASA doesn't have assets to document the reentries as they do for launchs, btw...)
(I am amazed that NASA doesn't have assets to document the reentries as they do for launchs, btw...)
Taking this thread title in its widest sence, and given that there won't be views of the EVAs from station based cameras; how good can we expect the coverage of STS 125 to be?Fine. All the action is taking place in the payload bay and there is an equal or higher "density" of cameras there than most places on the station.
Taking this thread title in its widest sence, and given that there won't be views of the EVAs from station based cameras; how good can we expect the coverage of STS 125 to be?Fine. All the action is taking place in the payload bay and there is an equal or higher "density" of cameras there than most places on the station.
Well, I think you can hear the sonic booms from the KSC VC and the Titusville area, though I'm not sure as I've only seen landings in California. But I've heard that the KSC Shuttle landing strip doesn't have a viewing facility - is this true?Not a public viewing facility. Heard the sonic booms in Titusville when STS-93 landed...that was also a 28.5 mission.
As for other spots in Florida (Orlando, Tampa, Miami) I'm not sure about the sonic booms, I think you'd have to view the descending orbiter through binoculars and it would be pretty high still.You can hear the booms without necessarily seeing the vehicle, but the ground track is important.
I'm pretty sure the only way I'll ever be in position to see a landing at KSC is if STS-125 (or a future mission) had to do an RTLS abort.Maybe; in a hypothetical RTLS, the vehicle would be approaching KSC from out over the Atlantic -- from the NE or the East. That would be a big difference from re-entries where vehicle is approaching from the west, northwest, or southwest...
weather is not looking good for the attempt on the 11th.Too early to be worrying about weather forecasts that far away.
weather is not looking good for the attempt on the 11th.
May 8, Friday
10 a.m. - STS-125 Countdown Status Briefing - KSC (Public and Media Channels)
11 a.m. - ISS Commentary - JSC (Public and Media Channels)
5 p.m. - STS-125 Crew Arrival - KSC (All Channels)
May 9, Saturday
11 a.m. - STS- 125 Countdown Status Briefing - KSC (Public and Media Channels)
NET 5:30 p.m. - STS-125 Prelaunch News Conference - KSC (All Channels)
May 10, Sunday
10 a.m. - STS-125 Countdown Status Briefing - KSC (Public and Media Channels)
12:30 p.m. - STS-125 Update Webcast - KSC (All Channels)
1 p.m. - Hubble Space Telescope Program Briefing - KSC (All Channels)
2 p.m. - Wide Field Planetary Camera Retrospective Briefing - KSC (All Channels)
5 p.m. - Launch Pad 39-A Rotating Service Structure Retraction - KSC (Public and Media Channels)
May 11, Monday
8:30 a.m. - STS-125 Launch Coverage Begins - KSC (All Channels)
2:01 p.m. - STS-125/Atlantis Launch - KSC (All Channels)
Where did you get your GOES information?
Hi all!
As we all know, the causeway is on a diagonal to the launchpad - the westerly end is about 1 mile or so closer to 39A than the easterly end.
Which end of the causeway do they start busing to first? I want to be as close as possible - so should I grab the first bus, or the last?
Are there any problems with a tripod on the causeway. I read that they are permitted but, is there room to set up a small one? I bought a new camcorder for this launch and I'll have had way to much coffee by that time to use the zoom effectively without a tripod I'm sure! :DYes, people do set up tripods for their cameras on the causeway but you're going to want to find a spot up front along the ropeline so people don't stand in front of you. So get there early if you can.
Space View Park is probably the best place for night photos of the pad. I say pad because you will basically only see the top of the ET and SRBs and not the orbiter. The orbiter will be behind the RSS which will be in the park position by Sunday night. Bring a tripod and zoom lens for best photos
A few questions - I knew some people were talking about going somewhere on Monday night for night photography - what was the final verdict on the best place to go for that? Space View Park?
I have a ticket for the GrayLine trip to the Causeway. Are you given time to be at the Center before the Causeway, or is the whole day spent at the Causeway?
If we have time at the Center first, and are bringing an umbrella chair, etc, are there any lockers available to store things for a few hours? I'm traveling solo, so I'm a bit concerned about being bogged down since I can't leave anything on the bus.
On that note - are backpacks allowed? I may just ditch the chair and take a blanket that I can fold up into a backpack.
Thanks for all your help, look forward to hearing from you!
-Tiffany
I need some help converting times for my tickets! I have LTT's and Dine with a Astronaut tickets + vehicle placard for the STS-125 launch. I have downloaded the latest info sheet from:
http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/kennedyspacecenter/LTT.pdf
My original times were:
Placard - arrive on or before 5:00pm
Dine w/Asrto - 18:15
STS-125 Admission - 9:00am
(These times were for the 8 October 2008 01:34 launch date/time)
These times don't seem to match anything on the LTT.pdf for converting times for the new launch date/time.
I've tried emailing [email protected] but no one has bothered to reply. I surmise it's going to be an early start, but I'd like to have NLT times to plan ahead.
Thanks,
mg
Space View Park is probably the best place for night photos of the pad. I say pad because you will basically only see the top of the ET and SRBs and not the orbiter. The orbiter will be behind the RSS which will be in the park position by Sunday night. Bring a tripod and zoom lens for best photos
A few questions - I knew some people were talking about going somewhere on Monday night for night photography - what was the final verdict on the best place to go for that? Space View Park?
I have a ticket for the GrayLine trip to the Causeway. Are you given time to be at the Center before the Causeway, or is the whole day spent at the Causeway?
If we have time at the Center first, and are bringing an umbrella chair, etc, are there any lockers available to store things for a few hours? I'm traveling solo, so I'm a bit concerned about being bogged down since I can't leave anything on the bus.
On that note - are backpacks allowed? I may just ditch the chair and take a blanket that I can fold up into a backpack.
Thanks for all your help, look forward to hearing from you!
-Tiffany
Not sure how GrayLine works but I think everyone has to go through the security check at KSCVC before going out to the causeway. There are some lockers at the center but I don't remember if they are large enough for umbrella chairs.
KSCVC says backpacks are not allowed, however, I have seen people at other launches with backpacks. Can't help much more than that.
Here's a link to the KSC Security Information site.Darmok is correct. When I went last year to STS-124 it said no Backpacks, Luggage, or Large Bags. It now just says no luggage or large bags.
http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/security-information.aspx
I didn't see specific references to backpacks on their list of items that aren't permitted. Just says no luggage or large bags. I'm assuming smaller backpacks, such as the daypack type that kids use to carry their schoolbooks, are allowed.
If anybody knows otherwise, please post a response so we can all be prepared.
Darmok
I am planning on a trip to Space View Park on Sunday night for some photos with the pad lighting, if anyone else is planning on doing the same let me know. I know there was some talk earlier in the thread. Otherwise, see you all on the Causeway!
What time will the lighting be on?
What time will the lighting be on?
IIRC correctly, it varies from mission to mission. Sometimes they have the xenon lights on at RSS rollback (though for STS-125 that's around 5pm). Other times they don't turn them on until well after RSS rollback. All depends (though I defer to someone who might have a preliminary schedule).
I don't know if this has been said anywhere yet, but I thought I'd let everyone know that there is going to be a one-hour special on STS-125 on the Science Channel at 1:00 PM May 11th, and it concludes with the launch live. I thought that was pretty cool. I haven't seen too many full specials on a single current mission before. I will be down there at the Cape for this launch (woohoo!!!!) so I'm definitely setting my DVR for the special on the Science Channel. That will be a nice little treat for my return home after a long drive!That's cool. Will they have it in HD?
I'll also be in the Congressional area on the causeway with my sister and her husband. I'll be the first time I've seen anything bigger than an Estes model rocket launch live !
I'm flying into Orlando Sunday morning.
bob
I was at KSC today, and took these photos of Atlantis
I'll also be in the Congressional area on the causeway with my sister and her husband. I'll be the first time I've seen anything bigger than an Estes model rocket launch live !
I'm flying into Orlando Sunday morning.
bob
Hi Bob! How did you get your passes? You will enjoy the launch, something you'll never forget as long as you live. See you there!
Mike
Hi. Is there any prediction when the SRB's will make it back? Have they already?
Thanks!
anyone else on the then & now tour the next day. I'm trying to locate the silo where the Challenger debris was buried. should've had the iphone map tracker going to better keep track of route of tour
anyone else on the then & now tour the next day. I'm trying to locate the silo where the Challenger debris was buried. should've had the iphone map tracker going to better keep track of route of tour
Hey, dmurphy, I get shivers all over again just seeing the great photo you got!
I had the privilege of being on the Causeway for the launch (snagged my LTT tickets last August!) - managed to get a great seat out there, with a wonderful view of the pad.
In Flight...That's wonderful!! What sort of lens were you using?
In Flight...That's wonderful!! What sort of lens were you using?
I had a Sigma 50-500 lens attached, and didn't want to handhold that thing!
In Flight...That's wonderful!! What sort of lens were you using?
I had a Sigma 50-500 lens attached, and didn't want to handhold that thing!
Tamron 200-500mm on a Slik Pro500DX tri-pod. for the launch pad shots. Then free-hand with the same lens for the in-flight shots.
Trying to process these shots on a 12 laptop screen is proving to be a bit challenging.
Does anybody know the landing attempt times for Atlantis (Assuming clear weather at KSC)? I'm due to go away for the weekend on Friday afternoon, but it's always good to watch on the web, so may be able to arrange "flexibility" when I leave if the time is close to leaving home time.The current landing time is 11:41 AM .
Any current info would be appreciated.
Thanks
Darren
Cool, thanks for that. Thats 16:41 over here so will be able to leave on time right after landing (Assuming weather is good!!) currently 30% chance of rain with isolated Thunder storms
:)
Here's a general question- I was at the VIP site for the launch, and after having seen about sixteen STS launches beginning with STS-1, I thought that this one did not seem as loud as most others, nor did it seem to shake us as much. I've seen them from the press site and from the early VIP areas as well as from the Hall of Fame area and the assorted areas near T'ville... the all seemed, from my best recall, to shake you a lot more than this one. Wonder if the weather had something to do with it? Any ideas?I've seen four launches, including this one, all from the NASA Causeway and this one had the most intense sound and feel. Weather, ecspecially wind, has a lot to do with feeling and hearing the launch.
Nick, Leo, and Justin-
Great,great photos and, I'm awfully glad you all posted them. At dinner Tuesday after seeing some of the shots you had taken, I had a sinking feeling that mine were going to be horrible as I was so torn between watching through the camera screen and watching with the naked eye. When I got home Thursday night, I found out that I was right! :-\ But, having the photos that you all posted took a great deal of the sting out of it! Thank you all for posting and, what say we all do it again very soon?
Chris Jones
I've seen one launch from the causeway (51-G in 1985) and at least a dozen including this one from Titusville. I made the comment after this launch that folks on the causeway had to have got rocked pretty good.Here's a general question- I was at the VIP site for the launch, and after having seen about sixteen STS launches beginning with STS-1, I thought that this one did not seem as loud as most others, nor did it seem to shake us as much. I've seen them from the press site and from the early VIP areas as well as from the Hall of Fame area and the assorted areas near T'ville... the all seemed, from my best recall, to shake you a lot more than this one. Wonder if the weather had something to do with it? Any ideas?I've seen four launches, including this one, all from the NASA Causeway and this one had the most intense sound and feel. Weather, ecspecially wind, has a lot to do with feeling and hearing the launch.
I've seen one launch from the causeway (51-G in 1985) and at least a dozen including this one from Titusville. I made the comment after this launch that folks on the causeway had to have got rocked pretty good.Here's a general question- I was at the VIP site for the launch, and after having seen about sixteen STS launches beginning with STS-1, I thought that this one did not seem as loud as most others, nor did it seem to shake us as much. I've seen them from the press site and from the early VIP areas as well as from the Hall of Fame area and the assorted areas near T'ville... the all seemed, from my best recall, to shake you a lot more than this one. Wonder if the weather had something to do with it? Any ideas?I've seen four launches, including this one, all from the NASA Causeway and this one had the most intense sound and feel. Weather, ecspecially wind, has a lot to do with feeling and hearing the launch.
I was one of those unlucky fellows to have missed this launch by about 5 hours due to my planning for the May 12 launch date. The cost to change the flight was $1000, which was far beyond my budget. For those of you who have done this multiple times successfully, do you have any tips about how and when to buy airline tickets? Which airline is the most flexible about changing dates without charging exorbitant fees? I only have enough money/time for one more chance before the program ends, so I'd like to give it the best shot I can.
Thanks.
Book with Southwest - there are no change fees - all you'd have to pay is the difference in cost between flights .... which was very little in my case, even across the almost year's timeline between launch attempts. :-)
I was one of those unlucky fellows to have missed this launch by about 5 hours due to my planning for the May 12 launch date. The cost to change the flight was $1000, which was far beyond my budget. For those of you who have done this multiple times successfully, do you have any tips about how and when to buy airline tickets? Which airline is the most flexible about changing dates without charging exorbitant fees? I only have enough money/time for one more chance before the program ends, so I'd like to give it the best shot I can.
Thanks.
Book with Southwest - there are no change fees - all you'd have to pay is the difference in cost between flights .... which was very little in my case, even across the almost year's timeline between launch attempts. :-)
I was one of those unlucky fellows to have missed this launch by about 5 hours due to my planning for the May 12 launch date. The cost to change the flight was $1000, which was far beyond my budget. For those of you who have done this multiple times successfully, do you have any tips about how and when to buy airline tickets? Which airline is the most flexible about changing dates without charging exorbitant fees? I only have enough money/time for one more chance before the program ends, so I'd like to give it the best shot I can.
Thanks.
Book with Southwest - there are no change fees - all you'd have to pay is the difference in cost between flights .... which was very little in my case, even across the almost year's timeline between launch attempts. :-)
Another vote for Southwest. I changed my tickets multiple times for this launch and probably wouldn't have been able to justify the fees if I'd flown another carrier. Also, check in advance and see how many flights your airline is flying down to Orlando the day of your departure. If they only have one plane going down, weather or mechanical issues could leave you in a tight spot. Southwest typically has 8-10 flights from BWI (close to home for me) to Orlando in a given day, most of which are direct flights. So no connections to worry about, and a better chance of getting on another flight if your plane has issues.
EDIT: as for when to book, I bought tickets at the end of April once it seemed like most launch hurdles had been cleared. There's really not much harm to buying further in advance as long as your airline has a reasonable change/refund policy. I booked the hotel & rental car a bit earlier just because those can sell out and are easier to cancel.
Also, I originally was going to fly back on the 14th but when they launched on the 11th I bumped up my return ticket to the 12th to save a few days of hotel & rental car expense. Flexibility is key.
hope this helps,
-Stephen M
Hello Everybody!
I've posted on flickr some pictures I've found on the NASA website. These pictures are modified by myself, with photoshop, and captureone.
What do you think about them? All critics are welcome! :)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pierrethurau/sets/72157618057658415/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/pierrethurau/sets/72157618057658415/)
Hi,
When the shuttle is in for landing. Is it possible to see anything from the nasa space center tours ?
Best regards,
Mike
ps:When is it arriving ? Thu or friday ?
FYI, the "targeted" landing time may move up one orbit, or about 90 minutes earlier on Friday. But the landing site is contingent on the weather.Hi,
When the shuttle is in for landing. Is it possible to see anything from the nasa space center tours ?
Best regards,
Mike
ps:When is it arriving ? Thu or friday ?
Landing is scheduled for Friday at 11:41 EDT
Can't help with the viewing possibilities, sorry.
Hi,If it manages to land at KSC, one of the places you might see it at is from the viewing stand on the crawler way, Judging by the time for landing you might need to get there for the first bus out.
When the shuttle is in for landing. Is it possible to see anything from the nasa space center tours ?
Best regards,
Mike
ps:When is it arriving ? Thu or friday ?
Does anyone have access to the reentry ground track for STS-125?The ground tracks usually come out a few days before the planned times, so they should be published in the next couple of days.
I should point out that this reentry is the first shuttle reentry since Columbia to overfly the continental U.S. It will also be our very last opportunity to view a shuttle reentry (only returns from ISS from here on out).
Did anything ever launch from KSC during the downtime this past week?
Does anyone have access to the reentry ground track for STS-125?The ground tracks usually come out a few days before the planned times, so they should be published in the next couple of days.
I should point out that this reentry is the first shuttle reentry since Columbia to overfly the continental U.S. It will also be our very last opportunity to view a shuttle reentry (only returns from ISS from here on out).
STS-120 entered over the continental U.S.
When I was there from Thursday to Saturday morning, I didn't see anything launching, whatever the range operation was must have been further out or something.
As far as watching the shuttle landing at KSC goes, during the then and now tour on Wednesday, the tour guide asked the audience where the best place to view a shuttle landing was a couple of times. Each time he would answer "in front of your TV"....his point being was that there really wasn't a good spot to view a landing at KSC if you were just a spectator. Now I was fortunate enough to view a couple of landings at Edwards (STS-26 and 30) while I was still a teenager....they have (or had) stands to view the landing and the view was pretty good, at least of the touchdown, also lots of spectators were there, they were festive occasions (space Woodstocks, kind of). I don't know how the viewing situation is there now.
Hi,If it manages to land at KSC, one of the places you might see it at is from the viewing stand on the crawler way, Judging by the time for landing you might need to get there for the first bus out.
When the shuttle is in for landing. Is it possible to see anything from the nasa space center tours ?
Best regards,
Mike
ps:When is it arriving ? Thu or friday ?
Looks like I wasn't too far from some of you some of you on the causeway, based on the perspectives of launch pictures. (And a quick poll the night before launch at Spaceview Park turned up four people who read about the location here). Here are a couple of prelaunch shots (fighting the wind with my trusty Celestron Nexstar 5 - doesn't everybody travel with one?) and a launch shot (Canon DSLR, zoom at 300mm). I wandered from our bus a bit to be able to get Endeavour in the background if I zoomed out - the last attachment shows both at once.
Those are very good shots Michelle. Yeah, I know what you mean about the heat and humidity, that Florida sun beats down on you. I'm glad I chugged some water bottles down before the launch - as they say "don't wait, hydrate!"
Did anything ever launch from KSC during the downtime this past week?
Looks like it goes pretty close to Orlando. How far away can the booms be heard?
To answer part of my own question: ground-tracks now at
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts125/news/landing.html
(thanks to psloss on the LIVE FD11 thread)
Looks like it goes pretty close to Orlando. How far away can the booms be heard?
To answer part of my own question: ground-tracks now atWhen they would reenter over Texas if you waited about 4 minutes after they went over you could hear very faint booms
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts125/news/landing.html
(thanks to psloss on the LIVE FD11 thread)
Looks like it goes pretty close to Orlando. How far away can the booms be heard?
Per the ground tracks - The track for the second opportunity would bring Atlantis almost directly over my hometown of San Angelo, which about three hours southeast of where I'm currently located. If the call is made to be "go" for landing on this rev, I'll be heading south very quickly to get some video.
What is everyone's experience with cross-track visibility? That is, how close do I have to be to the ground track line (perpendicular distance) to have a chance of seeing it fly by? I tried to spot it from 100 miles away once but had no success.
I'm sure atmospheric conditions play a role, but what about altitude? Does 40,000 feet vs 200,000 feet make any difference in visibility if you are way off to the side?
Hi,
I am back in Germany after the STS-125 launch. I had a great time during the three day countdown.
I have put together some photos I would like to share with all of you.
You can find my photo page at http://www.stefan-photopage.blogspot.com/