Author Topic: STS-119: Viewing Thread (Launch and Landing) (Read 75097 times)

jacqmans · « **on:** 12/14/2008 05:20 pm »

Lets open up this one for people who are planning a trip to watch the STS-119 launch from KSC.

ChrisGebhardt · « **Reply #1 on:** 12/14/2008 09:05 pm »

Not sure where I'll be watching from, but I will be more than happy to offer the NSF get together for dinner the night before again. Will keep everyone interested updated once we get into the New Year and we're closer to launch.

Aobrien · « **Reply #2 on:** 12/16/2008 12:03 pm »

When can we expect the LTT tickets to go on sale?

briguy700 · « **Reply #3 on:** 12/16/2008 12:26 pm »

I am going to the STS 119 Launch and am pumped !! This will be my first in-person shuttle launch !! We are going to Orlando to Disney that week and STS 119 just happened to get scheduled for that week as well. I have written my Senator about Causeway passes and hope to hear from him soon regarding that. I hope he comes through for me.

Can anyone tell me if KSC, the tours, etc will be open the DAY OF the launch AFTER the launch has taken place ?? We are going to do the "up close" tour that week too and are trying to decide when the best time to plan that around the launch is. Thanks for any insight anyone might have.

Go Discovery !!

jacqmans · « **Reply #4 on:** 12/16/2008 05:00 pm »

From my experience with the STS-126 launch, I would recommend to take the tour a few days before the launch, it brings you close to the pad... (but you see only the ET and SRB's) It is not so crowded then and you have all the time to see the things you want to see...

I belive that from the moment they start tanking there will be no tours anymore at KSC...

comethunter · « **Reply #5 on:** 12/16/2008 08:21 pm »

I agree...plan the "up close" tour before launch day. I took the tour in June and it basicly takes most of the day even with a 9:50 or 10:20 departure. Depending on how long you stay at the Sat V building (lunch time by then) and then into the afternoon if you take the ISS tour from there (which is included but you do have the option of skipping and taking a bus back to Visitor Center). This will not leave you much time for visitor center that day. STS-119 has a 7:28 am launch. I saw STS-51G launch, June 1985, from the causeway 7:33 a.m. and we arrived back at the visitor center 45 mins. later with Discovery tracking over Australia. You'll have to fight the crowds on launch day but with an "up close tour", plan on two space days at least. I'm not much of a photographer, but get pumped with this attachment of Endeavour from Titusville with the "target" of the future in background.

briguy700 · « **Reply #6 on:** 12/18/2008 01:51 pm »

Thanks !! Good advice. I appreciate it !!

TNCMAXQ · « **Reply #7 on:** 01/08/2009 12:50 am »

No word yet on when KSC tickets will go on sale? I am not sure I will make the trip, especially with winter weather always threatening. But I would like to have the option so I will try to buy a ticket. Liftoff is set for only about 5 weeks from now. I thought with 126 the tickets had gone on sale by this point. Hope I didn't miss it.

But there was no mention of a sale date on this thread.

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #8 on:** 01/09/2009 01:01 am »

From the mission page, launch is currently scheduled for 7:32 AM EST on Feb 12.

http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/launch/index.html

Does anyone know how long the launch window is?

I don't see anything yet about launch tickets, but supposedly the view is still pretty good from several non-KSC locations around the Titusville area, in case you miss out on tickets.

http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/event.aspx?id=58238fbb-50de-44a2-97ac-48075c3a508c&calendar=2009/2/0/ea22fa6a-c5ea-486e-98ea-c80a8cce4773

CJones5461 · « **Reply #9 on:** 01/09/2009 01:38 am »

Hello All, This is my first post to the forum.

I was wondering if anyone knew any pros or cons of the Central Florida Tours VIP package that they offer on launch days. They appear to be taking reservations now but with no ticket sale date as of yet, I was a little curious how they were able to take reservations for tickets they don't even have? Thanks, and let me also say what an amazing forum this is.

Aobrien · « **Reply #10 on:** 01/09/2009 01:45 am »

I an't remember from STS-126 but does anybody remember the price of the Causeway Launch Tickets and the Causeway with Lunch w/astronaut.
I want to figure out which one I would like to do. The reg with Up close Tour or LTT and Lunch w/ Astro. I went on the up close tour in August and it was amazing but I really want to see a shuttle on the Pad. The prices would be great.

Thanks

lsullivan411 · « **Reply #11 on:** 01/09/2009 06:29 am »

Quote from: iamlucky13 on 01/09/2009 01:01 am

Does anyone know how long the launch window is?

Launch windows are about 10 minutes, normally they target the middle of the window, so in essence if 7:32 is the middle, the window opens about 5 minutes earlier.

lsullivan411 · « **Reply #12 on:** 01/09/2009 06:32 am »

Quote from: Spaceboy7441 on 01/09/2009 01:45 am

I an't remember from STS-126 but does anybody remember the price of the Causeway Launch Tickets and the Causeway with Lunch w/astronaut.
I want to figure out which one I would like to do. The reg with Up close Tour or LTT and Lunch w/ Astro. I went on the up close tour in August and it was amazing but I really want to see a shuttle on the Pad. The prices would be great.

Thanks

I can't remember the exact prices, but the LTT was around $69 and the LTT with lunch with an astro was around $85.

Your tickets you get will be good for 2 days admission - one of those is launch day. Hopefully I'll be getting LTT myself this flight, at least I'm going to try!

Highly recommend the Up Close tour while the bird is on the pad - we did that for 126, and it's well worth it. Feel free to PM me with any questions on tours, as we did them all in November, and good luck getting the LTT tickets!

CJones5461 · « **Reply #13 on:** 01/09/2009 04:42 pm »

Just found this, dated 3 days ago but...

http://media.kennedyspacecenter.com/kennedy/news/sts119launch.htm

Monday it is.

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #14 on:** 01/09/2009 11:01 pm »

Quote from: lsullivan411 on 01/09/2009 06:29 am

Quote from: iamlucky13 on 01/09/2009 01:01 am

Does anyone know how long the launch window is?

Launch windows are about 10 minutes, normally they target the middle of the window, so in essence if 7:32 is the middle, the window opens about 5 minutes earlier.

Sorry...what I meant to ask was how many consecutive days can they attempt a countdown if there's a scrub? I'm trying to decide when I should buy my return ticket for.

Quote

Highly recommend the Up Close tour while the bird is on the pad - we did that for 126, and it's well worth it.

Do you know when the last opportunity for this is prior to launch? Day before? Thanks.

Aobrien · « **Reply #15 on:** 01/09/2009 11:05 pm »

I believe the day before.

CTdave · « **Reply #16 on:** 01/10/2009 12:15 am »

OH YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!
I just received my official NASA invitation for me, my wife and kids (son 6 and daughter 4). We will be going back to the Saturn 5 Center where we watched Atlantis go up last year!!! I am SOOO happy because my son just became his schools NASA/Shuttle reporter and the school will be beginning an after school program "Mad Science" based on The shuttle, propultion, Nasa & the universe. My 6 year old kept telling his classmates & teachers about the shuttle and the two launches we have attended. The teachers finally cought on that the kids are interested so they came up with the program.
We were already going to be in Stuart FL from the 6th-15th so it couldn't have been more convenient but we will extend if there is a delay.
I hope to see some of you there!
David (& family) from CT

ps this picture was slightly modified (for our Christmas card 2007)

Aobrien · « **Reply #17 on:** 01/10/2009 12:56 am »

Is that even closer than the causeway?
How did you get the invite?
Feel free to pm me.

CTdave · « **Reply #18 on:** 01/10/2009 02:46 am »

Quote from: Spaceboy7441 on 01/10/2009 12:56 am

Is that even closer than the causeway?
How did you get the invite?
Feel free to pm me.

I was introduced to someone there by a friend (sub contractor/engineer) three years ago & I've kept up a good relationship. She said it's getting extremely hard to give out invitations as everyone is pulling strings for the last few missions. I'll be in line to buy causeway passes (if available) after this. If those get hard to come by it will be the Visitor Ctr.
Check with the tour companies. There are several who have access to the causeway.

Aobrien · « **Reply #19 on:** 01/10/2009 01:48 pm »

The tickets are set for Monday. I am hoping to get them this time.
http://www.ksctickets.com/stspshat.html?ic_campID=4&ic_pkw=GH_119Launch_Jan09

floron · « **Reply #20 on:** 01/12/2009 01:07 pm »

whee! just grabbed my ticket...YEAH!!!! BUFFET BREAKFAST!!!

oh, and there's that shuttle launch thing, too.

rllacey · « **Reply #21 on:** 01/12/2009 01:11 pm »

Just scored 2 LTT tickets (no breakfast) - It's going to be a early AM :-)

contra · « **Reply #22 on:** 01/12/2009 01:50 pm »

Just tried to get a LTT through internet and phone. But I had no luck. If anybody has one for me I really would appreciate it. I need the LTT for my father who will be joining me on the trip to Florida.
I will be at the Press Site for the launch but I hope to get my father on the Causeway for the launch.
If you have one ticket you do not need, please let me know.

Thanks
Stefan

floron · « **Reply #23 on:** 01/13/2009 10:13 pm »

i'd love to take the tour and see the shuttle on the pad itself...can anyone give me advice on whether it's safe to assume they'll be running the tour on the day before launch (the 11th), or would it be better to arrive a few days early?

also, anyone got any recommendations for places to stay near KSC?

cheers!

astrobrian · « **Reply #24 on:** 01/13/2009 11:07 pm »

The day before launch you have to have LTT tickets if I recall correctly, best you can do is a few days before launch. There is tthe standard tour, the up close tour which is by reservation, and also Playlinda beach to see the back side of the pads

floron · « **Reply #25 on:** 01/13/2009 11:39 pm »

as luck would have it i do have LTT tickets

...is the 'up close' tour available to the general public, or is it an invitation-only type of thing?

Aobrien · « **Reply #26 on:** 01/14/2009 12:37 am »

It is available to everyone for I think around $23 Extra. I think it is well worth it. I saw it without a shuttle and it was still amazing.

HERE is a video of my whole day but you will see the up close pics. They are the ones at the VAB and at the PAD.

Aobrien · « **Reply #27 on:** 01/14/2009 12:40 am »

Here are some pics without zoom

CTdave · « **Reply #28 on:** 01/14/2009 03:34 am »

Nice presentation spaceboy! Great shots!

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #29 on:** 01/22/2009 04:32 pm »

Sweet! I just got my launch viewing from the visitor's center tickets and the up-close tour tickets for the day before. Thanks for all the advice and info in this thread.

Not quite-as-sweet...have to be on site by 3 AM. Oh well, that's the price you pay for watching 7 people kick gravity's butt, I guess.

By the way, since I was interested, I thought I'd share that sunrise is at 7:02 AM, so launch will be just after twilight.

comethunter · « **Reply #30 on:** 01/23/2009 03:54 am »

Speaking of sunrise, I was fortunate enough to be at Columbia's last launch to Hubble (STS-109) which occured just before sunrise. Might be selfish on my part to say this, but it would not bother me one bit if it gets delayed a day or two which backs it up to launch just before sunrise. STS-109 launch was absolutely fantastic because of the reflection; just hope the stack rattles the windows again. I'll be there; we'll see what happens. Godspeed!!!!

contra · « **Reply #31 on:** 01/27/2009 07:18 am »

Hi,
I will be in Florida for the launch of STS-119 and would like to see the arrival of the SRB retrieval ships. Any idea on what day and part of the day I could expect the ships sailing through Port Canaveral.

thanks,
Stefan

Jim · « **Reply #32 on:** 01/27/2009 11:21 am »

24 -48 hours after launch

Ronsmytheiii · « **Reply #33 on:** 01/27/2009 12:05 pm »

Quote from: comethunter on 01/23/2009 03:54 am

Might be selfish on my part to say this, but it would not bother me one bit if it gets delayed a day or two which backs it up to launch just before sunrise.

And miss mission control and PAO comparing the shuttle/station docking as a makeout session on Valentines day*? Not a chance.......

*Come now, is is obvious what they will do

Ford Mustang · « **Reply #34 on:** 01/27/2009 01:14 pm »

Quote from: Ronsmytheiii on 01/27/2009 12:05 pm

Quote from: comethunter on 01/23/2009 03:54 am
Might be selfish on my part to say this, but it would not bother me one bit if it gets delayed a day or two which backs it up to launch just before sunrise.

And miss mission control and PAO comparing the shuttle/station docking as a makeout session on Valentines day*? Not a chance.......

*Come now, is is obvious what they will do

I would doubt it. They already do an orbital ballet with the RPM. The PAO wouldn't take it overboard.

scott6428 · « **Reply #35 on:** 01/29/2009 01:35 pm »

Quote from: comethunter on 01/23/2009 03:54 am

Speaking of sunrise, I was fortunate enough to be at Columbia's last launch to Hubble (STS-109) which occured just before sunrise. Might be selfish on my part to say this, but it would not bother me one bit if it gets delayed a day or two which backs it up to launch just before sunrise. STS-109 launch was absolutely fantastic because of the reflection; just hope the stack rattles the windows again. I'll be there; we'll see what happens. Godspeed!!!!

Any rough idea as to how far back the launch time goes for each day of delay?

ChrisGebhardt · « **Reply #36 on:** 01/29/2009 01:43 pm »

Quote from: scott6428 on 01/29/2009 01:35 pm

Quote from: comethunter on 01/23/2009 03:54 am
Speaking of sunrise, I was fortunate enough to be at Columbia's last launch to Hubble (STS-109) which occured just before sunrise. Might be selfish on my part to say this, but it would not bother me one bit if it gets delayed a day or two which backs it up to launch just before sunrise. STS-109 launch was absolutely fantastic because of the reflection; just hope the stack rattles the windows again. I'll be there; we'll see what happens. Godspeed!!!!

Any rough idea as to how far back the launch time goes for each day of delay?

Roughly 23 to 25 minutes every day.

Bill Harwood's launch windows chart is online at spaceflightnow.com under the "current mission" section

scott6428 · « **Reply #37 on:** 01/29/2009 03:55 pm »

Thanks Chris I hope to make it titusville for this one. Saw the night launch from cocoa beach, which was pretty cool.

ChrisGebhardt · « **Reply #38 on:** 01/29/2009 03:58 pm »

Quote from: scott6428 on 01/29/2009 03:55 pm

Thanks Chris I hope to make it titusville for this one. Saw the night launch from cocoa beach, which was pretty cool.

Sounds good. I'm still trying to put together a lunch or dinner for NSF members Wednesday February 11. I'm waiting on my schedule for February before committing but I will certainly post information once I know which one I can swing.

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #39 on:** 01/30/2009 06:45 am »

Does anyone know if any audio or video (like NASA TV) is provided during viewing from the visitor's complex to help keep track of what's going on? If not, is there an audio broadcast and on what frequency so I can get an appropriate scanner?

Spaceflight now has an estimated timeline of pre-launch activities:
http://spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts119/fdf/119count.html

It mentions: "11:30 AM......RSS to park position"

That should be really cool, as I've scheduled my close-up tour for about that time.

jacqmans · « **Reply #40 on:** 01/30/2009 01:15 pm »

Quote from: iamlucky13 on 01/30/2009 06:45 am

That should be really cool, as I've scheduled my close-up tour for about that time.

The up close tour only stops at the back site of pad 39A, so you will not see the Shuttle during the bus stop, only when the bus drives by... the normal no extra money tour stops in front of 39A so if you want to see the Shuttle take that tour...but I do not know if that normal tour will ride at that time....

See photo take by me during the up close tour last november...

jeff2space · « **Reply #41 on:** 01/30/2009 01:23 pm »

Quote from: iamlucky13 on 01/30/2009 06:45 am

Does anyone know if any audio or video (like NASA TV) is provided during viewing from the visitor's complex to help keep track of what's going on? If not, is there an audio broadcast and on what frequency so I can get an appropriate scanner?

KSCVC does set up a jumbotron screen near the rocket garden to broadcast NASA TV video and audio.

mainengine · « **Reply #42 on:** 01/30/2009 08:58 pm »

Quote from: jacqmans on 01/30/2009 01:15 pm

The up close tour only stops at the back site of pad 39A, so you will not see the Shuttle during the bus stop, only when the bus drives by... the normal no extra money tour stops in front of 39A so if you want to see the Shuttle take that tour...but I do not know if that normal tour will ride at that time....

See photo take by me during the up close tour last november...

Really nice picture.
But I think/know there's no tour beyond VAB after hypergolics loaded into Orbiter.

ChrisGebhardt · « **Reply #43 on:** 01/30/2009 10:47 pm »

Quote from: mainengine on 01/30/2009 08:58 pm

Really nice picture.
But I think/know there's no tour beyond VAB after hypergolics loaded into Orbiter.

No. Tours continue past the VAB after Hyper load. If they didn't Jacques would not have gotten that picture or tour since Endeavour's hypergols were loaded at Pad-B for STS-126 -- and the fact that he took that tour 3 days or so before launch.

Ford Mustang · « **Reply #44 on:** 01/30/2009 10:56 pm »

There are no up-close tours prior to RSS retraction, I believe the last day is L-2, before RSS retraction. Please correct me if that's wrong.

mainengine, there would be nobody allowed, besides essential pad and launch personnel, past the VAB when the vehicle is being loaded with fuel.

Here's another picture from the Up Close tour from STS-126, taken by Larry Sullivan (lsullivan411) from Max-Q Entertainment. Please go here to see the full image. It's big (4mb), so not recommended for dial-up users.

floron · « **Reply #45 on:** 01/31/2009 07:04 am »

hmm. I've got an up-close tour booked for the day before launch...i think i better give the visitor center a call tomorrow to make sure it's still running.

jeff2space · « **Reply #46 on:** 01/31/2009 02:19 pm »

Quote from: floron on 01/31/2009 07:04 am

hmm. I've got an up-close tour booked for the day before launch...i think i better give the visitor center a call tomorrow to make sure it's still running.

I'm sure the tours are still running the day before launch. The question would be how close to the pad they will take you. Depending on the current pad operations, the tour may stop at the LC-39 Observation Gantry rather than driving past the pads and stopping at the camera stop between the pads. The tour would still go to the causeway, the VAB, the SLF, and finally the Apollo/Saturn V Center.

actionuiuc · « **Reply #47 on:** 01/31/2009 03:40 pm »

Has anyone had their tickets mailed out yet?

Brian

jeff2space · « **Reply #48 on:** 01/31/2009 04:13 pm »

Quote from: actionuiuc on 01/31/2009 03:40 pm

Has anyone had their tickets mailed out yet?

Brian

Yes, my LTT tickets arrived two days ago.

CJones5461 · « **Reply #49 on:** 02/01/2009 03:02 pm »

Does anyone know how soon after a launch the up close tours resume? This is my first time viewing a launch and first trip to KSC in nearly 20 years. I would love to take the up close tour but my travel plans will make it impossible to do before launch. Thanks for any info. Also, if some of you all do plan a lunch or dinner for forum members, love to meet some of you all, if you don't mind a noob poking around! Like to say thanks in person for all I've learned since becoming a member. That and prove to my wife that L2 is not just some strange addiction that only I have!

floron · « **Reply #50 on:** 02/01/2009 09:50 pm »

a fellow n00b would also be interested in meeting up at some point...

i'm rolling into town on the evening of the 10th, and can stay until the following Sunday if the launch is delayed...

lsullivan411 · « **Reply #51 on:** 02/02/2009 09:09 am »

Quote from: CJones5461 on 02/01/2009 03:02 pm

Does anyone know how soon after a launch the up close tours resume? This is my first time viewing a launch and first trip to KSC in nearly 20 years. I would love to take the up close tour but my travel plans will make it impossible to do before launch. Thanks for any info. Also, if some of you all do plan a lunch or dinner for forum members, love to meet some of you all, if you don't mind a noob poking around! Like to say thanks in person for all I've learned since becoming a member. That and prove to my wife that L2 is not just some strange addiction that only I have!

Typically they will run the day before, then the day after launch - not launch day itself. Interestingly the KSC website shows tickets available for the Up Close tour at 12:40pm on the 12th - so with the early morning launch they may run it that day. I recommend calling them, you can get the number off their website.

Highly recommend trying to get there before launch if you can, and see the stack on the pad, for the first time visitor it's an awesome sight - even though it's only the back of the tank and boosters.

Also of note, when I was there in November I had booked a particular day for the tour, and got a call about a week ahead saying they were not going to run tours for that day - so I had to pick another day, so they can change last minute.

capt doufos · « **Reply #52 on:** 02/02/2009 02:08 pm »

Hi,

I have a couple of question I think you will be able to help me with.

I have bought some launch tickets, unfortunatley not LTT tickets. I was on as soon as sales opened and still didn't manage to get any

We are on holiday from the UK and we are touring Florida, we get into Orlando on the 11th having come up from Naples. I have just got the tickets and the Pass says to be there at 2am!!! I thought I had originally read you needed to be there at least 2 hours before the launch.

Is arriving 5 hours early really needed? It means we will have to leave orlando at Midnight, and go a whole night with no sleep having had a 3-4 hour drive the day before.

One last thing is, how much better is the view from the KSC than Titusville? I am pretty miffed at not getting onto the causeway, and not being able to see the shuttle on the pad. Do you think it is worth viewing at the KSC with no direct view? or Is Titusville just as good?

Any help is much appricated.

Jonathan

mainengine · « **Reply #53 on:** 02/02/2009 03:39 pm »

Quote from: ChrisGebhardt on 01/30/2009 10:47 pm

Quote from: mainengine on 01/30/2009 08:58 pm

Really nice picture.
But I think/know there's no tour beyond VAB after hypergolics loaded into Orbiter.

No. Tours continue past the VAB after Hyper load. If they didn't Jacques would not have gotten that picture or tour since Endeavour's hypergols were loaded at Pad-B for STS-126 -- and the fact that he took that tour 3 days or so before launch.

Oh, sure, that's right. Sorry
Didn't mean hypergolics but cryogenic reactants for the fuel cell storage tanks. This happens at about T - 27 hrs. In my experience there are no tours after that to the LC 39 gantry. I've been there several times and took similiar pics of the Shuttle on the up-close tour from the observation point beetween the pads. But never allowed to go even to the LC 39 gantry after cryo loading began.
But: maybe they changed the rules. Please let me know !

mainengine · « **Reply #54 on:** 02/02/2009 03:47 pm »

Quote from: capt doufos on 02/02/2009 02:08 pm

Hi,

I have a couple of question I think you will be able to help me with.

I have bought some launch tickets, unfortunatley not LTT tickets. I was on as soon as sales opened and still didn't manage to get any

We are on holiday from the UK and we are touring Florida, we get into Orlando on the 11th having come up from Naples. I have just got the tickets and the Pass says to be there at 2am!!! I thought I had originally read you needed to be there at least 2 hours before the launch.

Is arriving 5 hours early really needed? It means we will have to leave orlando at Midnight, and go a whole night with no sleep having had a 3-4 hour drive the day before.

One last thing is, how much better is the view from the KSC than Titusville? I am pretty miffed at not getting onto the causeway, and not being able to see the shuttle on the pad. Do you think it is worth viewing at the KSC with no direct view? or Is Titusville just as good?

Any help is much appricated.

Jonathan

The earlier the better.
You must calculate the heavy traffic before a launch. And there is something to see on the big screen at KSC. To be there early is better than to watch the launch out of your car on Beachline Expressway like a friend of mine experienced last November.

The Engine Start and Shuttle liftoff will be a little bit obstructed from KSC. I think there is a picture of this anywhere in the forum but not sure. There is a dense tree line around the visitor center like this one at the picture (this is the press site with the back of the countdown clock - only for illustration !!)

ChrisC · « **Reply #55 on:** 02/02/2009 05:58 pm »

Two things to add regarding viewing and tours:

1. Well known to regulars here, photographer Ben Cooper has an awesome write-up on viewing options here, including the poor visibility from the KSC visitors center prior to launch: http://www.launchphotography.com/Shuttle_Launch_Viewing.html

2. During my ill-fated STS-122 trip in Dec 2007 (ECO sensor scrub), I had Up Close tour tickets for the day after nominal launch day. On that first launch day, they did the first 24 hour scrub (at 9:00 am), and within an hour KSC Tours was calling me on my cell phone to rebook my tour that was now going to conflict with the next day's launch attempt. And I was able to rebook for that same day! Quite impressive turnaround time on their part -- the whole experience made me feel like a VIP. Which I am of course

I'll be down there again next week. If it scrubs then I may be jinxed.

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #56 on:** 02/03/2009 11:03 am »

Quote from: mainengine on 02/02/2009 03:39 pm

Oh, sure, that's right. Sorry
Didn't mean hypergolics but cryogenic reactants for the fuel cell storage tanks. This happens at about T - 27 hrs. In my experience there are no tours after that to the LC 39 gantry. I've been there several times and took similiar pics of the Shuttle on the up-close tour from the observation point beetween the pads. But never allowed to go even to the LC 39 gantry after cryo loading began.
But: maybe they changed the rules. Please let me know !

Hmmm...I would seriously hope the KSC visitor's center staff would be familiar enough with KSC operations to know this. I made certain when I bought my tickets to clarify to the gentleman from customer service that I was interested in doing the close-up tour the day before launch (about T-20 hours). He didn't mention anything being cut from the tour. I sure hope you're wrong; I was planning on the pad being the highlight of the tour.

mattcham · « **Reply #57 on:** 02/03/2009 10:09 pm »

I have tickets to view the launch from the causeway. I hear the security is very tight this year and was wondering if they have historically banned any particular items, like large camera tripods, long telephoto camera lenses, or backpacks. Has anybody here been to a causeway launch viewing?

TJL · « **Reply #58 on:** 02/03/2009 10:13 pm »

QUOTE..."One last thing is, how much better is the view from the KSC than Titusville? I am pretty miffed at not getting onto the causeway, and not being able to see the shuttle on the pad. Do you think it is worth viewing at the KSC with no direct view? or Is Titusville just as good"?

This picture, taken from Titusville of STS 120, is a good example. If you were watching from the Visitors Center, you would just about be able to see the vehicle at this point. It all comes down to whether or not you want to see the first 10 seconds or so of the launch.

mceddiemac · « **Reply #59 on:** 02/03/2009 10:42 pm »

Quote from: mattcham on 02/03/2009 10:09 pm

I have tickets to view the launch from the causeway. I hear the security is very tight this year and was wondering if they have historically banned any particular items, like large camera tripods, long telephoto camera lenses, or backpacks. Has anybody here been to a causeway launch viewing?

You should be OK with those. I've seen guys out there with 500mm and 600mm primes with the large tripods and gimbal type heads and the ones I've talked too said they had little to no issues with security. The few things you cannot bring is very large bags, very large backpacks or the roller board suitcases.

floron · « **Reply #60 on:** 02/04/2009 12:42 am »

OH NOES!

...that's that trip down the tubes...

oh, and i've just discovered that Super8 motels won't let you move or cancel your reservation, so be warned if you're planning a trip...

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #61 on:** 02/04/2009 01:54 am »

Ahhhhhhhhhh crud! And this just three hours after I bit the bullet on a new lens for my camera to use at the launch...

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2009/02/agency-frr-change-net-for-sts-119/

Launch is now no earlier than Feb 19 due to the flow control valve replacement. If it's not one thing (LH2 sensors, etc), it's another. Maybe I was deluding myself, but reading the latest articles, it sounded to me like they weren't expecting to have to push the launch back for this issue.

Ok, so the launch viewing tickets are still good for two days admission to KSC, right?

I'm looking into changing my flight and hotel reservations, but I expect this will now be just a tour.

ChrisC · « **Reply #62 on:** 02/04/2009 02:14 am »

Regarding viewing from Titusville vs KSC visitors center:

Quote from: TJL on 02/03/2009 10:13 pm

It all comes down to whether or not you want to see the first 10 seconds or so of the launch.

I'd say that's only half of it. The other half is sound. KSC VC is 7.4 miles to pad 39A; Titusville viewpoints are 12+ miles from the same pad. I'm guessing that sound energy decreases quadratically, so ... you get waaay less launch sounds in Titusville. I've heard folks describe it as disappointing. Compare the videos at the bottom of Ben Cooper's page -- and note how much more dramatic the sound is on the causeway.

Getting on the phone first thing in the morning to reschedule my hotel and tour ...

I live in Atlanta, an 8 hour drive from KSC, which makes it feasible to drive and not get tied up in flights. I've recently been thinking that I might not live in the southeast forever, so I'm taking advantage of my proximity to get down there to see a launch. Was foiled last time by those damn ECO sensor signal passthroughs ...

KurtMac · « **Reply #63 on:** 02/04/2009 03:55 am »

Quote from: floron on 02/04/2009 12:42 am

OH NOES!

...that's that trip down the tubes...

oh, and i've just discovered that Super8 motels won't let you move or cancel your reservation, so be warned if you're planning a trip...

Quote from: iamlucky13 on 02/04/2009 01:54 am

Ahhhhhhhhhh crud!
Ok, so the launch viewing tickets are still good for two days admission to KSC, right?

I'm looking into changing my flight and hotel reservations, but I expect this will now be just a tour.

Your sentiments are mine as well, my friends. I could theoretically change my vacation plans for the next week, but even then we won't know for sure what true launch date will be until NASA decides on Feb. 12 (according to the press conference). Do I spend potentially hundreds of dollars more to reschedule my flight/hotel/car and still not be certain of viewing a launch? Or do I just bite the bullet and stick with my current plans and hope for better luck on a future mission?

@floron: I too have hotel reservations that are "non refundable" though perhaps they are changeable at the same hotel, if you get a charitable rep on the phone. That clause in the hotel contract was the one oversight in planning this trip for what was to be my first space shuttle launch.

@iamlucky13: I am also wondering if this is the case to be able to use the LTT launch tickets merely as visitor complex admission. My other thought was to try and sell them on eBay, they were fetching a pretty penny up until the rescheduled launch, so who knows now what will happen.

Lesson learned: Its very hard to plan to view a space shuttle launch when you don't live in Florida. If not, you have to wait until the last minute to make travel/hotel plans and end up paying through the nose for it, but... its probably worth it. Oh yes. One day...

floron · « **Reply #64 on:** 02/04/2009 06:40 am »

...and i was looking forward to that dawn launch too...sigh.

on the other hand, at least next time i know to arrive two days ahead of launch so i can get the unadulterated up-close tour.

can you actually sell tickets on ebay? i was under the impression that they were non-transferable...

CJones5461 · « **Reply #65 on:** 02/04/2009 04:55 pm »

In the spirit of lemonade outta lemons, and the fact that I can't delay my trip any longer, I'm gonna go down next week anyway. Can anyone comment on just what will be able to be seen on the upclose tour now that the launch is delayed. I am hoping to at least get some decent photos but was wondering about the position of the RSS now that there is a delay. Thanks.

Jim · « **Reply #66 on:** 02/04/2009 04:57 pm »

Quote from: CJones5461 on 02/04/2009 04:55 pm

I am hoping to at least get some decent photos but was wondering about the position of the RSS now that there is a delay. Thanks.

It will stay in the service position (around the vehicle)

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #67 on:** 02/04/2009 05:12 pm »

By the way guys (will write this up), as per going over the Agency FRR minutes/manager comments (L2) and talking to guys involved, the delay could be from a week to a month, and then there's conflicts. So this is really up in flux for a while.

Hopefully we'll get a better idea next week.

ChrisGebhardt · « **Reply #68 on:** 02/04/2009 07:43 pm »

Quote from: Chris Bergin on 02/04/2009 05:12 pm

By the way guys (will write this up), as per going over the Agency FRR minutes/manager comments (L2) and talking to guys involved, the delay could be from a week to a month, and then there's conflicts. So this is really up in flux for a while.

Hopefully we'll get a better idea next week.

Hey.... let's look at this from a slightly humerous standpoint: At least this time the delay doesn't involve Shuttle Atlantis!!!!!!!

Ford Mustang · « **Reply #69 on:** 02/04/2009 08:01 pm »

Quote from: ChrisGebhardt on 02/04/2009 07:43 pm

Quote from: Chris Bergin on 02/04/2009 05:12 pm
By the way guys (will write this up), as per going over the Agency FRR minutes/manager comments (L2) and talking to guys involved, the delay could be from a week to a month, and then there's conflicts. So this is really up in flux for a while.

Hopefully we'll get a better idea next week.

Hey.... let's look at this from a slightly humerous standpoint: At least this time the delay doesn't involve Shuttle Atlantis!!!!!!!

She's got her own set of problems

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #70 on:** 02/05/2009 12:18 am »

Quote from: KurtMac on 02/04/2009 03:55 am

@floron: I too have hotel reservations that are "non refundable" though perhaps they are changeable at the same hotel, if you get a charitable rep on the phone. That clause in the hotel contract was the one oversight in planning this trip for what was to be my first space shuttle launch.

@iamlucky13: I am also wondering if this is the case to be able to use the LTT launch tickets merely as visitor complex admission. My other thought was to try and sell them on eBay, they were fetching a pretty penny up until the rescheduled launch, so who knows now what will happen.

Lesson learned: Its very hard to plan to view a space shuttle launch when you don't live in Florida. If not, you have to wait until the last minute to make travel/hotel plans and end up paying through the nose for it, but... its probably worth it. Oh yes. One day...

I think my hotel reservations are refundable ($25 penalty), but changing the flight is going to cost at least $200, and as Chris said (many thanks for the behind-the-scenes info, by the way), the rescheduled launch date is still very much up in the air.

According to the KSC visitors center site (link), the tickets are still good for visitors center admission, but I'm not sure if its for one day or two. Normal launch viewing tickets are for launch day plus one more. I might call them and ask. If someone else does or already knows, please post the answer. Of course, you may be able to ebay the tickets and then just buy the cheaper visitor's center admission.

Indeed, I knew when I decided to make this trip that there was a risk, but:

a.) Having just been laid off and having the spare time, and
b.) Knowing that February is the least likely time for a weather-related delay, and
c.) Hoping for no surprises since the ECO issue was resolved

I decided to try my luck. Regardless of whether rescheduling works, I still plan to have a blast seeing the visitor's center, playing on the beach (Highs are 40 degrees in Oregon right now), and exploring the area. I've also talked to a couple people about job prospects in the area, and I may try to contact USA or SpaceX about an interview.

At worst, it ends up being an "ordinary" Florida vacation.

ChrisGebhardt · « **Reply #71 on:** 02/05/2009 01:12 am »

Quote from: iamlucky13 on 02/05/2009 12:18 am

b.) Knowing that February is the least likely time for a weather-related delay, and

Wouldn't go advertising that claim. February holds just as much potential for a weather delay as March, July, August, October, etc. It all comes down to the weather at the time of T0, T+25mins for an RTLS abort, the TAL abort site weather, and the AOA abort weather at KSC or EDW.

FYI, the STS-122 launch last year (Feb. 7, 2008) came very close to being scrubed due to weather.

ChrisC · « **Reply #72 on:** 02/05/2009 02:11 am »

Quote from: iamlucky13 on 02/05/2009 12:18 am

According to the KSC visitors center site, the tickets are still good for visitors center admission, but I'm not sure if its for one day or two. Normal launch viewing tickets are for launch day plus one more.

I bought regular visitor center tickets for the day after launch (now rescheduled) and they are good for two days as well. I think ALL KSC tickets are basically good for two days. They say the second day has to be used within 7 days of the first, so they don't even have to be consecutive.

Quote

Knowing that February is the least likely time for a weather-related delay

Not to pick a fight with our esteemed NSF reporter (above), but I'd agree with you. That's why I'm going down for this launch (and nosing around in this thread) -- winter weather patterns tend to be more stable than the rest of the year. At the very least it's less dynamic and you're less likely to get the sudden storms popping up. I don't live in Florida, but I have picked up this much in years of watching launch attempts -- and listening to Kathy Winters at the countdown briefings talking about the general weather patterns in force at that time of the year. Perhaps rdale will step in here and set us all straight

KurtMac · « **Reply #73 on:** 02/05/2009 04:52 am »

Quote from: floron on 02/04/2009 06:40 am

...and i was looking forward to that dawn launch too...sigh.
on the other hand, at least next time i know to arrive two days ahead of launch so i can get the unadulterated up-close tour.
can you actually sell tickets on ebay? i was under the impression that they were non-transferable...

Does the LTT ticket package include the "NASA Up Close" guided tour? From the KSC description of the LTT: "Provides admission to all Visitor Complex movies, exhibits, shows and two IMAX films. Also included is the Kennedy Space Center tour, the Apollo/Saturn V Center and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame." Is the Kennedy Space Center tour the same thing as the NASA Up Close? If so, then it would be a better deal to keep the LTT admission tickets than to sell them to buy the regular admission and the regular NASA Up Close tickets. I'll have to call KSC tomorrow to check.

Also, there are about a dozen eBay listings for various STS-119 launch tickets. I think the terms and conditions say the tickets are non-transferrable to another mission so I don't see why we couldn't give them to someone else for this launch since they don't have our names on them. I could be wrong, but others seem to have success selling them.

shuttlefanatic · « **Reply #74 on:** 02/05/2009 06:43 am »

Quote from: iamlucky13 on 02/05/2009 12:18 am

I think my hotel reservations are refundable ($25 penalty), but changing the flight is going to cost at least $200, and as Chris said (many thanks for the behind-the-scenes info, by the way), the rescheduled launch date is still very much up in the air.

If Southwest Airlines serves your area, that's the way to go. They're the only airline that doesn't charge a fee for changes, only the fare difference, if any. (And if the new fare is cheaper, you get a credit useable for future travel.) I just book two weeks or more in advance, and if the date moves as it has here, I just reschedule, often with no difference in fares. I've done trips where I've pre-booked 4 separate one way legs (2 out and 2 return) and just canceled the flight legs I didn't need. The full value of the cancelled flights is good for 1 year towards other travel.

Quote from: KurtMac on 02/04/2009 03:55 am

Lesson learned: Its very hard to plan to view a space shuttle launch when you don't live in Florida. If not, you have to wait until the last minute to make travel/hotel plans and end up paying through the nose for it, but... its probably worth it. Oh yes. One day...

I live in San Diego. My budget for this trip is under $400. $70 for the LTT with shipping, $250 for roundtrip airfare on SWA, and approx. $50 for a one day car rental. No hotel because I realized with the early AM launch, I can arrive in Orlando at midnight, drive straight to KSC for the launch, and if everything goes as planned, leave later that day. Of course, each day of scrub will cost about $150 for hotel and car if I stay... Yes, you can call me crazy...

chaloopy · « **Reply #75 on:** 02/05/2009 03:45 pm »

I live in San Diego. My budget for this trip is under $400. $70 for the LTT with shipping, $250 for roundtrip airfare on SWA, and approx. $50 for a one day car rental. No hotel because I realized with the early AM launch, I can arrive in Orlando at midnight, drive straight to KSC for the launch, and if everything goes as planned, leave later that day. Of course, each day of scrub will cost about $150 for hotel and car if I stay... Yes, you can call me crazy...

[/quote]

and I thought Nasa only looses out on scrubs

floron · « **Reply #76 on:** 02/05/2009 03:51 pm »

Quote from: KurtMac on 02/05/2009 04:52 am

Also, there are about a dozen eBay listings for various STS-119 launch tickets. I think the terms and conditions say the tickets are non-transferrable to another mission

oh, my bad. I've got to learn to read the small print...

TJL · « **Reply #77 on:** 02/05/2009 05:16 pm »

QUOTE..."I'd say that's only half of it. The other half is sound".

Absolutely, Chris.
However, atmospheric conditions and wind direction plays a large part in the sound generated.
I've seen quite a few launches from Titusville, and there were some that actually "roared".

mceddiemac · « **Reply #78 on:** 02/05/2009 05:24 pm »

Quote from: KurtMac on 02/05/2009 04:52 am

Is the Kennedy Space Center tour the same thing as the NASA Up Close?

No. KSC has a standard tour that is included with the admission. It has 3 stops; LC 39 Gantry, Apollo/Saturn V Center and the International Space Station Center. The guided tours (NASA Up Close Tour and the Cape Canaveral: Then & Now Tour ) are tours that are offered for additional fee and operate on a fixed schedule.

http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ksc-tours.aspx

charlieb · « **Reply #79 on:** 02/06/2009 12:23 pm »

Quote from: TJL on 02/05/2009 05:16 pm

QUOTE..."I'd say that's only half of it. The other half is sound".

Absolutely, Chris.
However, atmospheric conditions and wind direction plays a large part in the sound generated.
I've seen quite a few launches from Titusville, and there were some that actually "roared".

If you don't mind me asking - where along the riverfront Titusville is a good place to watch the launch? I happen to be in Fla (Orlando) week after next.. Thanks in advance for any hints...

mceddiemac · « **Reply #80 on:** 02/06/2009 03:02 pm »

Quote from: charlieb on 02/06/2009 12:23 pm

If you don't mind me asking - where along the riverfront Titusville is a good place to watch the launch? I happen to be in Fla (Orlando) week after next.. Thanks in advance for any hints...

Ben Cooper's site has very good info:
http://www.launchphotography.com/Shuttle_Launch_Viewing.html

Davinator · « **Reply #81 on:** 02/06/2009 09:35 pm »

Quote from: Chris Bergin on 02/04/2009 05:12 pm

By the way guys (will write this up), as per going over the Agency FRR minutes/manager comments (L2) and talking to guys involved, the delay could be from a week to a month, and then there's conflicts. So this is really up in flux for a while.

Hopefully we'll get a better idea next week.

You weren't joking!

The article you were talking about, with the threat of a longer delay,
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2009/02/understanding-the-threats-fcv-flight-rationale/

and then it's,

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2009/02/sts-119-net-february-22-risk-of-a-two-month-delay/

punkboi · « **Reply #82 on:** 02/11/2009 09:03 am »

Two photos I took when I was at KSC on February 8 and 9

jre50 · « **Reply #83 on:** 02/12/2009 12:15 am »

Greetings all.

I found this forum while doing a search on the launch delays for STS-119. Watching a shuttle launch has been on my to-do list for some time. I was able to get tickets for the "breakfast with an astronaut" package and you can imagine my disappointment when I found out we'd be viewing the launch from the Visitor's Center and not the causeway. My bad for not reading the fine print.

I'll be flying down from Buffalo NY (thank you Southwest) and have already modified my flights three times because of the delays. If it's delayed once again after I'm in Florida....there's always golf.

Keep the countdown running...

ChrisC · « **Reply #84 on:** 02/12/2009 02:54 am »

Quote from: jre50 on 02/12/2009 12:15 am

I found this forum while doing a search on the launch delays for STS-119.

Welcome aboard and brace yourself. You will get ten times more info about space shuttle operations here than anywhere else. And if you subscribe to L2 (look above) that factor is a 100. Warn your spouse if you do subscribe to L2, because your brain will explode and leave a mess.

I'm on pins and needles waiting for news Thursday and Friday hopefully leading to getting back on track for the 22nd ...

Mighty · « **Reply #85 on:** 02/12/2009 06:42 am »

Hi, everyone.

I got lucky and managed to get LTT tickets on my first try

One question: Obviously, my scheduled arrival time will change. Do I just subtract the difference in launch times from what's printed on the placard they sent? How does that work?

I'm also flying Southwest out of Dallas, so that part is easy. I'm staying a few days to see friends, so the rescheduling the hotel costs money each time I have to change it :-/

Drake

timprogers · « **Reply #86 on:** 02/12/2009 04:41 pm »

Since I can no longer go due to work schedule issues, does anyone know of a good place (other than eBay) where I can sell my two Astronaut Hall of Fame viewing passes for the STS-119 launch?

jre50 · « **Reply #87 on:** 02/12/2009 08:47 pm »

Quote from: Mighty on 02/12/2009 06:42 am

Hi, everyone.

I got lucky and managed to get LTT tickets on my first try One question: Obviously, my scheduled arrival time will change. Do I just subtract the difference in launch times from what's printed on the placard they sent? How does that work?

To be assured of the correct arrival times I suggest calling the KSC Visitor's Complex sales department at 321-449-4400. I called after the first delay and they were very helpful.

jre50 · « **Reply #88 on:** 02/12/2009 08:52 pm »

Quote from: ChrisC on 02/12/2009 02:54 am

Quote from: jre50 on 02/12/2009 12:15 am
I found this forum while doing a search on the launch delays for STS-119.

Welcome aboard and brace yourself. You will get ten times more info about space shuttle operations here than anywhere else. And if you subscribe to L2 (look above) that factor is a 100. Warn your spouse if you do subscribe to L2, because your brain will explode and leave a mess.

I'm on pins and needles waiting for news Thursday and Friday hopefully leading to getting back on track for the 22nd ...

Thanks. Getting more info here was obvious after reading just this thread.

yorky10 · « **Reply #89 on:** 02/14/2009 03:45 pm »

I need a bit of help, I am a launch viewing veteran but I have only ever seen a launch from the Causeway and the Visitors Complex. Basically I will be in Florida between 25th Feb and 7th March. With the new NET launch date I have got a vacation bonus but all the tickets (LTT & VC) are sold out so I will have to watch from outside NASA property which I have never done. Has anyone got any suggestions and can anyone describe the Astronaut Hall Of Fame viewing site to give me an idea what that is like (ie line of sight to 39A, acoustics, track of the vehicle after launch etc). I haven't got much time to make my plans so any help/suggestions would be awesome.

Thanks from the UK, Dave

Andrewwski · « **Reply #90 on:** 02/14/2009 04:23 pm »

Titusville. Anywhere along the river.

ChrisC · « **Reply #91 on:** 02/14/2009 07:17 pm »

Quote from: yorky10 on 02/14/2009 03:45 pm

Has anyone got any suggestions and can anyone describe the Astronaut Hall Of Fame viewing site to give me an idea what that is like (ie line of sight to 39A, acoustics, track of the vehicle after launch etc).

http://www.launchphotography.com/Shuttle_Launch_Viewing.html

In a perfect world, new visitors to this forum topic would see a popup saying "go read Ben's page first"

TJL · « **Reply #92 on:** 02/14/2009 10:40 pm »

Quote from: yorky10 on 02/14/2009 03:45 pm

I need a bit of help, I am a launch viewing veteran but I have only ever seen a launch from the Causeway and the Visitors Complex. Basically I will be in Florida between 25th Feb and 7th March. With the new NET launch date I have got a vacation bonus but all the tickets (LTT & VC) are sold out so I will have to watch from outside NASA property which I have never done. Has anyone got any suggestions and can anyone describe the Astronaut Hall Of Fame viewing site to give me an idea what that is like (ie line of sight to 39A, acoustics, track of the vehicle after launch etc). I haven't got much time to make my plans so any help/suggestions would be awesome.

Thanks from the UK, Dave

This should help...

http://www.ksctickets.com/adstashaloff.html

Andrewwski · « **Reply #93 on:** 02/15/2009 03:56 am »

View won't be better from the HOF than from the shore of the river in Titusville. Same distance either way. If you're looking for the rest of the perks though (HOF and KSC admission, etc) then it would be worth it though.

Bubbinski · « **Reply #94 on:** 02/15/2009 08:25 pm »

My first time viewing a launch was from the AHOF. (STS-104 - Quest Airlock at 5 am EDT). I could barely see Atlantis' main engines fire on the pad through a hole in the trees and with the help of binoculars, but once it passed above the trees it turned night into day and I got a good look at it up until about 4-5 min after launch or so.

It was pretty crowded but good, and being able to see exhibits was a nice way to pass the time too. The traffic was also less insane than it was six years later when I watched STS-117 as AHOF is closer to the town itself.

For STS-125 I'm going to the causeway. I look forward to it!

CTdave · « **Reply #95 on:** 02/16/2009 01:44 am »

27th huh?
Chris B, can you go out on a limb and give me your best estimate on the date? I know there are so many things going on down there that it's hard to say. We just returned home to CT from FL (family vacation based around the original launch date) & have already canceled our second round trip based on the 21st launch date. I need to re book for the 27th but this is getting expensive! The tickets for the 21st cost BIG $$ because there was so little notice and the cancelation fee was $480 alone.
Again, I'm not holding anyone responsible but your guess is better than mine!
Thanks again
David

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #96 on:** 02/16/2009 05:00 am »

Quote from: ChrisC on 02/14/2009 07:17 pm

Quote from: yorky10 on 02/14/2009 03:45 pm
Has anyone got any suggestions and can anyone describe the Astronaut Hall Of Fame viewing site to give me an idea what that is like (ie line of sight to 39A, acoustics, track of the vehicle after launch etc).

http://www.launchphotography.com/Shuttle_Launch_Viewing.html

In a perfect world, new visitors to this forum topic would see a popup saying "go read Ben's page first"

It wouldn't be a bad idea for whoever starts the thread each mission to include that link, as well as one to the visitor's center launch viewing page. Or a moderator can add them.

ChrisC · « **Reply #97 on:** 03/03/2009 06:08 pm »

FYI for those of you planning to take a KSC tour (an extra paid tour, not just the free one that comes with admission), as we go through these adjustments to the target launch date the KSC Visitor's Center has been just fine with me rescheduling my tour (Now & Then) several times.

Further, the Now & Then tours have actually been cancelled lately due to "a water main break that has flooded the area", so they've been diligent about calling ME with that news.

In Dec 2007, when I had a tour scheduled for the day after nominal launch, and then they did a 24 hour scrub, within 2 hours of scrub decision I had a call from KSC VC asking me about how I would like to rebook. (tours don't run on launch days)

collectSPACE · « **Reply #98 on:** 03/05/2009 08:18 pm »

Spaceflight Now to host live launch broadcast
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts119/090305broadcast/

Miles O'Brien and David Waters will host live video coverage, together with former astronaut Leroy Chiao, for five hours.

ChrisC · « **Reply #99 on:** 03/05/2009 08:30 pm »

It's unclear from that announcement whether that will be free or part of their paid SFN Plus service.

Edit: Ooof, thanks collectSpace, don't know how I missed that at the end. I wonder if they added it in an edit.

Anyway, they annoyed me to no end with their braindead billing, so once I found this place I was done with them

collectSPACE · « **Reply #100 on:** 03/05/2009 08:55 pm »

Quote from: ChrisC on 03/05/2009 08:30 pm

It's unclear from that announcement whether that will be free or part of their paid SFN Plus service.

I'm not sure how more clear they could be: "Both the live broadcast and podcast will be available free to all readers."

Chris Bergin · « **Reply #101 on:** 03/05/2009 09:02 pm »

Are Florida Today also doing there's again Robert? I think you were a guest on one of them.

psloss · « **Reply #102 on:** 03/05/2009 09:12 pm »

Quote from: collectSPACE on 03/05/2009 08:18 pm

Spaceflight Now to host live launch broadcast
http://www.spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts119/090305broadcast/

Miles O'Brien and David Waters will host live video coverage, together with former astronaut Leroy Chiao, for five hours.

Thanks for the heads up; at the very least worth a look.

collectSPACE · « **Reply #103 on:** 03/05/2009 11:42 pm »

Quote from: Chris Bergin on 03/05/2009 09:02 pm

Are Florida Today also doing there's again Robert? I think you were a guest on one of them.

If history holds true, they will offer a webcast although I haven't seen anything yet promoting it on their website. And yes, I was very happy to chat about Buzz Lightyear with Todd during their STS-124 launch video.

We (collectSPACE) are also planning to introduce a new video component for this launch, though completely different (and not live) than what SFN and Florida Today offers, with a more "behind the scenes" type feel. The details are still being worked out...

shuttlefanatic · « **Reply #104 on:** 03/08/2009 06:49 pm »

For you photographers out there... Moonrise on launch day will be 8:23P EDT. There might be some interesting shots with moonrise next to the pad or if you're really lucky, having the moon in the frame during ascent. I'd love to try it out, but I'll be on the Causeway

If I've worked things out correctly, the table below gives the altitude and azimuth and approximate location along the west bank of the Indian River. I'm unfamiliar with the area, so I can't say whether there's access or visibility to the launch pad from these areas.

EDT Altitude Azimuth Approximate Indian River location
20:20 -1.0 95.8
20:30 1.4 97.0 Paces Landing / Kingman Rd
20:40 3.4 98.2
20:50 5.4 99.4
21:00 7.4 100.7
21:10 9.5 101.9 Jay Jay
21:20 11.5 103.2 Parrish Rd
21:30 13.5 104.5
21:40 15.6 105.9 East Mims
21:50 17.6 107.3

comethunter · « **Reply #105 on:** 03/08/2009 11:56 pm »

Sounds reminiscent of STS-126 moonrise. I took this picture from Titusville. Let's hope the launch goes as smoothly for Discovery as it did with Endevour in November (minus the FCV issue). I'll be passing on this launch to go to Hubble in May.

block51 · « **Reply #106 on:** 03/09/2009 04:39 am »

I decided a few days ago that I would drive down from SC to see the launch. I can't wait. It won't be my first shuttle launch (I've been to 2), but it will be my first night launch. We can normally see night launches in SC, but a dot of light seen for 30 seconds is much less cool that being there. So pretty much anywhere along the river in Titusville is a good place to watch from?

Andrewwski · « **Reply #107 on:** 03/09/2009 07:00 pm »

Yup, you can see the pads from anywhere that has a clear view across the river. You should be able to see the pad pretty easily if it's lit up with the Xenon's I'd think.

starneml · « **Reply #108 on:** 03/09/2009 07:37 pm »

Anyone now the track for the launch? Will it be travelling up the east coast? I was able to see it the last time it did that, hopeing to see it again from a darker area, IF it will be possible to see it.

Thanks

Ford Mustang · « **Reply #109 on:** 03/09/2009 07:42 pm »

Quote from: starneml on 03/09/2009 07:37 pm

Anyone now the track for the launch? Will it be travelling up the east coast? I was able to see it the last time it did that, hopeing to see it again from a darker area, IF it will be possible to see it.

Thanks

I merged the topic with "Going to the launch, etc", as it's to do with viewing.

psloss · « **Reply #110 on:** 03/09/2009 07:52 pm »

Quote from: starneml on 03/09/2009 07:37 pm

Anyone now the track for the launch? Will it be travelling up the east coast? I was able to see it the last time it did that, hopeing to see it again from a darker area, IF it will be possible to see it.

Yes, same track as any recent shuttle launch, more or less along the U.S. East Coast. (The next shuttle launch will be the exception.)

bkellysky · « **Reply #111 on:** 03/10/2009 09:25 pm »

Here, just north of New York City, we would be able to see 4 or 5 minutes of powered flight, up to MECO, low in the southeast. Of course, that's if the clouds permit - Clear Sky Chart predicts 60% cloud cover and the National Weather Service predicts 30% sky cover for 9 to 10 pm local time.

I'm trying to figure out if having the Moon 15degrees above the ESE horizon will make it harder to pick out the Shuttle or just make the scene more interesting.

(I'm still waiting for my Congressional Representative for a chance to see a launch live and in person from the ground up!)

Go Discovery!

CTdave · « **Reply #112 on:** 03/11/2009 01:07 am »

My wife, 4 and 6 year old kids and I arrived around 9 pm & are out at "The Resort on Cocoa Beach". We could clearly see Discovery all lit up as we went over the causeway. It's an awsome sight! We have seen two other launches but this will be our first night launch. We're watching from the Saturn V Center!!!!

GOOOO DISCOVERY!!!!!!

ChrisC · « **Reply #113 on:** 03/11/2009 02:49 am »

Regarding east coast visibility, here's a graphic that I refer to frequently. Ignore the "Thursday" text in the graphic. This applies only to launches to the ISS orbital inclination.

http://a52.g.akamaitech.net/f/52/827/1d/www.space.com/images/061205_shuttle_vismap_02.jpg

rdale · « **Reply #114 on:** 03/11/2009 01:02 pm »

Early reports are that NASA TV will not have a PAO-less feed on the media channel for STS-119.

psloss · « **Reply #115 on:** 03/11/2009 01:20 pm »

Quote from: rdale on 03/11/2009 01:02 pm

Early reports are that NASA TV will not have a PAO-less feed on the media channel for STS-119.

Bummer; any explanation of why? Was it a lack of feedback (or lack of positive feedback)? Lack of something else, like resources?

astrobrian · « **Reply #116 on:** 03/11/2009 03:32 pm »

Good luck to all those going in person. Take some good photos

Ronsmytheiii · « **Reply #117 on:** 03/11/2009 03:38 pm »

Contacted my local meteorologist for conditions in my area for MECO visibility along with the visibility graphic, here is his response:

Quote

I would LOVE to see it, but I am concerned about potential cloudiness. Skies should be partly to variably cloudy. Some of our viewers may get to see it, others likely won't get a good look.
If you are able to spot it, email me and let me know.
Good luck.
-Craig
________________________________________
From: Ron Smytheiii [redacted]
Sent: Wednesday, March 11, 2009 12:00 AM
To: Moeller, Craig
Subject: sts-119 viewing

Tonight at 9:20 pm the space shuttle discovery will liftoff from Florida
and travel on a path up the east coast to the space station. Since this
is a night launch, it should be visible in the area shown in the image
included. My question is how will the skies be at this time?

shuttle launch visibility:
http://a52.g.akamaitech.net/f/52/827/1d/www.space.com/images/061205_shuttle_vismap_02.jpg

-Ron Smith

So hopefully the skies over my hometown will clear up so I can get video.

Ronsmytheiii · « **Reply #118 on:** 03/11/2009 03:41 pm »

Fox news story on sts-119 visibility on East coast

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,508044,00.html

Ronsmytheiii · « **Reply #119 on:** 03/11/2009 04:13 pm »

http://www.beloblog.com/WVEC/wxlab/2009/03/more-changes-coming.html

at end: http://www.wvec.com/video/index.html?nvid=340687&shu=1

rdale · « **Reply #120 on:** 03/11/2009 05:09 pm »

Quote from: psloss on 03/11/2009 01:20 pm

Was it a lack of feedback (or lack of positive feedback)?

Because "a majority of the media did not use it." They will reevaluate for STS-125.

CTdave · « **Reply #121 on:** 03/12/2009 12:26 am »

Well, that's it for us. After changing our flights four times so far, finally flying down to FL, car rental, hotel & cancelation polocy & the airlines charging $100 per ticket to change PLUS the difference in price (usually another $100 on top of the change fee), It's time to give up on Discovery. I would have to change our tickets AGAIN, and then possibly AGAIN for a Monday launch. We can't have our kids missing any more school for launch "possibilities".
Best of luck everyone & as always, a MAJOR thank you for everyone here on nasaspaceflight.com for keeping us well informed on what is happening. Your coverage is second to none!

floron · « **Reply #122 on:** 03/12/2009 12:27 am »

sigh. scrub to Sunday at the earliest.

this is turning out to be the trickiest vacation i've ever tried to organize...:-P

netpac · « **Reply #123 on:** 03/12/2009 12:42 am »

Hi

is anybody interested in to selling two TTL to me?
Please let me know at [email protected]
I'm at moment in Titusville until Monday.

Thanks
Roger

TNCMAXQ · « **Reply #124 on:** 03/12/2009 02:30 am »

Quote from: CTdave on 03/12/2009 12:26 am

Well, that's it for us. After changing our flights four times so far, finally flying down to FL, car rental, hotel & cancelation polocy & the airlines charging $100 per ticket to change PLUS the difference in price (usually another $100 on top of the change fee), It's time to give up on Discovery. I would have to change our tickets AGAIN, and then possibly AGAIN for a Monday launch. We can't have our kids missing any more school for launch "possibilities".
Best of luck everyone & as always, a MAJOR thank you for everyone here on nasaspaceflight.com for keeping us well informed on what is happening. Your coverage is second to none!

Sorry it did not work out for you. I know the feeling. Have you seen one or more launches from the Saturn 5 Center, or the causeway before? I can't remember. Hopefully you will get to see more before the shuttle program ends.

TNCMAXQ · « **Reply #125 on:** 03/12/2009 02:33 am »

Anyone know what is the status of the LTT's? I bought one for this mission since I thought I could make the trip when it was scheduled for Feb. 12. I did not reschedule my trip for the March 11 attempt. Since liftoff was called off presumably before the buses started rolling to the causeway I am not sure if the tickets they issued will be good for the next launch attempt. I won't be able to go for the 15th-17th but am thinking I could make the trip if they stand down til April 7 or so. If anyone has info please fill me in. Thanks.

shuttlefanatic · « **Reply #126 on:** 03/12/2009 02:42 am »

Quote from: TNCMAXQ on 03/12/2009 02:33 am

Anyone know what is the status of the LTT's? I bought one for this mission since I thought I could make the trip when it was scheduled for Feb. 12. I did not reschedule my trip for the March 11 attempt. Since liftoff was called off presumably before the buses started rolling to the causeway I am not sure if the tickets they issued will be good for the next launch attempt. I won't be able to go for the 15th-17th but am thinking I could make the trip if they stand down til April 7 or so. If anyone has info please fill me in. Thanks.

My understanding is that they're good until 1) you get on the bus or 2) STS-119 goes without you. They scrubbed before any LTT buses rolled today, but I was debating if I get on an early bus to setup some sunset photography, or wait for a late bus so I don't burn an LTT on a scrub.

Now I'm debating whether to stick around until Sunday or just bail out tomorrow. What I fear waiting until Sunday is that staying until Monday isn't far behind, and I _can't_ stay until Tuesday, so that's probably the day it will go :\ Go ahead. You can all blame me for the delay.

CTdave · « **Reply #127 on:** 03/13/2009 12:55 am »

Quote from: TNCMAXQ on 03/12/2009 02:30 am

Quote from: CTdave on 03/12/2009 12:26 am
Well, that's it for us. After changing our flights four times so far, finally flying down to FL, car rental, hotel & cancelation polocy & the airlines charging $100 per ticket to change PLUS the difference in price (usually another $100 on top of the change fee), It's time to give up on Discovery. I would have to change our tickets AGAIN, and then possibly AGAIN for a Monday launch. We can't have our kids missing any more school for launch "possibilities".
Best of luck everyone & as always, a MAJOR thank you for everyone here on nasaspaceflight.com for keeping us well informed on what is happening. Your coverage is second to none!

Sorry it did not work out for you. I know the feeling. Have you seen one or more launches from the Saturn 5 Center, or the causeway before? I can't remember. Hopefully you will get to see more before the shuttle program ends.

Yes, we did get to watch from the Saturn V Center last year. That was our second launch. The year before we watched from the visitor Ctr.
As luck would have it (well not lucky) my dad was rushed to the hospital in Stuart FL last week & is getting discharged on Saturday (unfortunately not a good long term forecast) & no sooner did I arrive home in CT today with my wife & kids, I had booked yet another flight to FL for this Saturday night. I'm sad that my kids will not be with me but I will be there for sure.

gloriashelton · « **Reply #128 on:** 03/13/2009 03:29 pm »

After several attempts to see 119, I now give up. I do have tickets for those of you lucky folks in Florida who may be interested. Would air express today - email to [email protected]

collectSPACE · « **Reply #129 on:** 03/13/2009 04:34 pm »

Quote from: Chris Bergin on 03/05/2009 09:02 pm

Are Florida Today also doing there's again Robert? I think you were a guest on one of them.

I just heard from Todd at Florida Today and they will be live webcasting the launch on Sunday. (I will be appearing at 5pm to discuss the crew's personal mementos and menu choices.)

TJL · « **Reply #130 on:** 03/14/2009 12:28 pm »

Weather forecast here on Long Island (New York) looks pretty good for Sunday night.
Using bioculars, you'll be able to see very clearly the v-shaped orange-yellow fire contrail of the 3 main engines pushing Discovery into orbit.
From this location, the last 45 seconds or so of powered flight can be witnessed, followed by Main Engine Cut Off and ET separation.
With thrusters firing sporadically right after MECO, it makes for an awesome sight!

rllacey · « **Reply #131 on:** 03/14/2009 01:40 pm »

Has anyone seen a new email from KSC about arrival times? The last one I have is from last Friday and had the following info:

STS-119 Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex & Launch Transportation Ticket Holders
Original "Arrive-By" Time - New "Arrive By" Time
12:00 AM has changed to 01:00 PM
01:00 AM has changed to 02:00 PM
02:00 AM has changed to 03:00 PM
03:00 AM has changed to 04:00 PM
04:00 AM has changed to 05:00 PM
05:00 AM has changed to 06:00 PM
06:00 AM has changed to 07:00 PM

Anyone know if this is still relevant?

shuttlefanatic · « **Reply #132 on:** 03/14/2009 02:15 pm »

Quote from: rllacey on 03/14/2009 01:40 pm

Has anyone seen a new email from KSC about arrival times? The last one I have is from last Friday and had the following info:
...

Anyone know if this is still relevant?

Those were the times for Wednesday's attempt. My understanding is the KSC gates are closed 2 hours before launch, so a 7PM arrival for a 7:40 launch wouldn't make sense.

I would back them up about 2 hours for the Sunday attempt.

bkellysky · « **Reply #133 on:** 03/16/2009 12:50 am »

Did not see STS-119 here, north of New York City - too many clouds to the south and east.
I did catch the ISS one hour later passing in front of Orion....

15 sec exposure Canon A40 on tripod, ISO 100.

astrobrian · « **Reply #134 on:** 03/16/2009 01:07 am »

tried but no pictures, but I had the shuttle go over on orbit 1, and iss 30 minutes later

Ford Mustang · « **Reply #135 on:** 03/16/2009 01:30 am »

My friend, Shawn, got some very amazing pictures of today's launch. If you want to see more than what is attached below, please go here.

rpertusio · « **Reply #136 on:** 03/16/2009 06:15 am »

We went to today's launch from the Saturn V Center (Banana Creek). Wow! Much better than SpaceView Park in Titusville. It was well worth it, despite the delays.

The official NASA TV video didn't catch the full beauty of the launch. (NASA TV shows more of a 'nighttime' launch, but was actually still quite lit from the sun, which set about 5-10 mins earlier.)

The 'rumble' was louder than I expected, and made it feel like my pants were flapping. Check out the trail left by Discovery-- it shows a Blue/Pink/Yellow/White trail from the sunset, which no pictures have been able to fully capture.

- rp

aurora899 · « **Reply #137 on:** 03/16/2009 10:06 am »

It looks as though NASA PAO are still experimenting with the format of their countdown coverage. Last time (STS-126) we had Candrea Thomas in the firing room relaying the countdown and Allard sat outside in a deckchair talking to various people. This time Candrea had the interviewees sat at her console whilst Allard popped up now and again with a few bits and bobs. I'm not sure whether this format worked better or not.
As a UK resident, I was interested to hear that one of the questions NASA PAO endeavoured to answer was from "Laurence" in Bournemouth. Of course, most English people would pronounce this delightful seaside town as "Bournem'uth" so it was quite funny to hear Candrea call it "BourneMOUTH."

astrobrian · « **Reply #138 on:** 03/16/2009 02:54 pm »

Larry Sullivan, also of Max-Q, took these shots from the other side of Florida, in the Ocala area

Ronsmytheiii · « **Reply #139 on:** 03/16/2009 04:26 pm »

Quote from: rpertusio on 03/16/2009 06:15 am

The 'rumble' was louder than I expected, and made it feel like my pants were flapping. Check out the trail left by Discovery-- it shows a Blue/Pink/Yellow/White trail from the sunset, which no pictures have been able to fully capture.

This close?

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc251/knro99/IMG_1617.jpg

rpertusio · « **Reply #140 on:** 03/16/2009 04:41 pm »

Very nice, Ronsmytheiii! That is much better than the NASA images I could find. (Closest I could find was here:
http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/images/medium/2009-2068-m.jpg )

dmac · « **Reply #141 on:** 03/16/2009 04:50 pm »

HI everyone.Just got in from work.Is there 1ssues with one of the APUs
Thanks

rdale · « **Reply #142 on:** 03/16/2009 05:40 pm »

dmac - this is the thread about pictures of the launch, I'd suggest reading the articles on the home page here, then transition to the 119 mission thread.

rpertusio · « **Reply #143 on:** 03/16/2009 05:49 pm »

Here's a picture I took, but was digitally zoomed (by the camera) so it's not perfect quality.

Large 'dot' is Discovery, and 2 small 'dots' are the SRBs about 30 seconds after separation.

- rp

rllacey · « **Reply #144 on:** 03/16/2009 06:09 pm »

The plume was great. We watched it from the causeway too. (more photos at www.flickr.com/photos/rllacey)

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #145 on:** 03/16/2009 07:27 pm »

Quote from: rpertusio on 03/16/2009 06:15 am

We went to today's launch from the Saturn V Center (Banana Creek). Wow! Much better than SpaceView Park in Titusville. It was well worth it, despite the delays.

If you don't mind, how did you manage to get seats there? I can hardly even guess how awesome that must have been.

rpertusio · « **Reply #146 on:** 03/16/2009 08:38 pm »

Hi, quite simple! I emailed my congressman. I told him that I wanted to see a launch. I told him I wanted to see STS-125 (when it was still scheduled for Feb) but his assistant said it was full, so I told chose STS-119 instead. In December '08 I received the formal invitation in the mail from NASA telling me I could watch STS-119 from the Causeway.

NASA emailed after every delay, and asked to RSVP each time. After the last delay, I guess a lot of people decided they weren't going. So, since they could fit our entire group at Banana Creek, we went there instead of the Causeway.

I don't know if your congressman has specific tickets for Banana Creek available, or if just the Causeway are available.

We were told to meet behind Sears at Merritt Square mall, where a tour bus took us to Banana Creek.

- rp

TNCMAXQ · « **Reply #147 on:** 03/16/2009 09:16 pm »

Quote from: aurora899 on 03/16/2009 10:06 am

It looks as though NASA PAO are still experimenting with the format of their countdown coverage. Last time (STS-126) we had Candrea Thomas in the firing room relaying the countdown and Allard sat outside in a deckchair talking to various people. This time Candrea had the interviewees sat at her console whilst Allard popped up now and again with a few bits and bobs. I'm not sure whether this format worked better or not.
As a UK resident, I was interested to hear that one of the questions NASA PAO endeavoured to answer was from "Laurence" in Bournemouth. Of course, most English people would pronounce this delightful seaside town as "Bournem'uth" so it was quite funny to hear Candrea call it "BourneMOUTH."

I think Candrea needs to say more in the final half minute. A few times I thought perhaps the audio from launch control was lost because I did not hear anything. Prior to T-31 though it is impossible to know what was said because the cable news people kept talking, but that is another story.

I feel reassured when the PAO reports on every milestone, or every 5 second interval. When there is quiet it makes me worry something has gone wrong. She said "10" but then did not say anything about main engine start. It's fine to listen to the calls by launch controllers but I just think the PAO should be more thorough and proactive.

I thought Allard Beutel did a very good job with 124 last May. I hope he will call more launches in the future.

Austin · « **Reply #148 on:** 03/17/2009 12:18 am »

Quote from: TNCMAXQ on 03/16/2009 09:16 pm

I think Candrea needs to say more in the final half minute. A few times I thought perhaps the audio from launch control was lost because I did not hear anything. Prior to T-31 though it is impossible to know what was said because the cable news people kept talking, but that is another story.

I feel reassured when the PAO reports on every milestone, or every 5 second interval. When there is quiet it makes me worry something has gone wrong. She said "10" but then did not say anything about main engine start. It's fine to listen to the calls by launch controllers but I just think the PAO should be more thorough and proactive.

A quiet launch countdown is a good thing. Truthfully, I'd just assume not hear anything from PAO at all. But I do understand that the general public needs to have each of the milestones explained. A silent launch countdown is a good (nominal) launch count. Think of it as "no news is good news." Too much chatter on the loop, especially inside of 2 minutes, ain't a good thing.

TNCMAXQ · « **Reply #149 on:** 03/17/2009 12:53 am »

[/quote]

A quiet launch countdown is a good thing. Truthfully, I'd just assume not hear anything from PAO at all. But I do understand that the general public needs to have each of the milestones explained. A silent launch countdown is a good (nominal) launch count. Think of it as "no news is good news." Too much chatter on the loop, especially inside of 2 minutes, ain't a good thing.

[/quote]

I get your point. I also get a little nervous when I hear chatter from controllers in the final minute or two, fearful that a hold will be called. But the PAO is there to keep the public informed, and explain the proceedings. I guess also I remember the days of Jack King and Hugh Harris very well. So I am used to a more verbose launch announcer.

When the PAO is quiet it just doesn't sound natural to me, especially in the final 31 seconds.

TJL · « **Reply #150 on:** 03/17/2009 12:54 am »

I found this photo on the NASA web-site of yesterday's STS 119 launch.
Looks to me like it was taken from Titusville...can anyone confirm?
Thank you.

punkboi · « **Reply #151 on:** 03/17/2009 02:00 am »

Thanks to a heads-up by one of my friends, I was able to spot the ISS and shuttle as it passed over Southern California about 30 minutes ago. Actually, the ISS passed over SoCal around 7:18 - 7:21 PM, and Discovery passed overhead around 7:37 - 7:41 PM (Pacific Time).

In my giddiness, I decided to post two pics I took of the ISS...despite the fact these will probably be the most crappy space-related images you'll ever see.

(The sky was already too dark for me to get a shot of Discovery)

Ford Mustang · « **Reply #152 on:** 03/17/2009 02:04 am »

Quote from: TJL on 03/17/2009 12:54 am

I found this photo on the NASA web-site of yesterday's STS 119 launch.
Looks to me like it was taken from Titusville...can anyone confirm?
Thank you.

I wouldn't be surprised if it was by the way it's facing.

Mighty · « **Reply #153 on:** 03/17/2009 02:09 am »

Man, those colors were amazing.

From the causeway. More pics here.

The second one includes the shuttle and boosters in the lower-right

Mighty · « **Reply #154 on:** 03/17/2009 02:23 am »

BTW, how long did it take people to get out? We made it to US 1 at a little before 11:00 pm. More than three hours after launch. More than two of that on the road for those eight miles.

astrobrian · « **Reply #155 on:** 03/17/2009 03:18 am »

Quote from: TJL on 03/17/2009 12:54 am

I found this photo on the NASA web-site of yesterday's STS 119 launch.
Looks to me like it was taken from Titusville...can anyone confirm?
Thank you.

My guess would be the 406 causeway or somewhere just south of there in Titusville

rpertusio · « **Reply #156 on:** 03/17/2009 04:57 am »

Quote from: Mighty on 03/17/2009 02:23 am

BTW, how long did it take people to get out? We made it to US 1 at a little before 11:00 pm. More than three hours after launch. More than two of that on the road for those eight miles.

Took us an extra 2 hours to escape the traffic. We were at Merritt's Square traveling westward towards Tampa.

- rp

iamlucky13 · « **Reply #157 on:** 03/17/2009 07:57 am »

Quote from: rpertusio on 03/16/2009 08:38 pm

Hi, quite simple! I emailed my congressman...

Thanks rp. I knew that congressmen could get constituents viewing tickets, but I was unsure how that process worked, and confused if they were for the causeway or Saturn V center. Your info will be very helpful...thankfully my representative doesn't have to know I didn't vote for him.

A friend and I ate lunch outside at the Saturn V center when we were down for the original STS-119 launch date, and all we could do was just stare across the river and salivate.

aurora899 · « **Reply #158 on:** 03/17/2009 12:24 pm »

Quote from: TNCMAXQ on 03/16/2009 09:16 pm

Quote from: aurora899 on 03/16/2009 10:06 am
It looks as though NASA PAO are still experimenting with the format of their countdown coverage. Last time (STS-126) we had Candrea Thomas in the firing room relaying the countdown and Allard sat outside in a deckchair talking to various people. This time Candrea had the interviewees sat at her console whilst Allard popped up now and again with a few bits and bobs. I'm not sure whether this format worked better or not.
As a UK resident, I was interested to hear that one of the questions NASA PAO endeavoured to answer was from "Laurence" in Bournemouth. Of course, most English people would pronounce this delightful seaside town as "Bournem'uth" so it was quite funny to hear Candrea call it "BourneMOUTH."

I think Candrea needs to say more in the final half minute. A few times I thought perhaps the audio from launch control was lost because I did not hear anything. Prior to T-31 though it is impossible to know what was said because the cable news people kept talking, but that is another story.

I feel reassured when the PAO reports on every milestone, or every 5 second interval. When there is quiet it makes me worry something has gone wrong. She said "10" but then did not say anything about main engine start. It's fine to listen to the calls by launch controllers but I just think the PAO should be more thorough and proactive.

I thought Allard Beutel did a very good job with 124 last May. I hope he will call more launches in the future.

Yes, you're right. I think I might move this to the general discussion section and throw it open to a wider debate regarding NASA's overall launch coverage.

Andrewwski · « **Reply #159 on:** 03/17/2009 06:52 pm »

Where were you coming from in regards to traffic?

When I was in Titusville for STS-118, US1 was at a complete standstill. Titusville had a lot of residential side streets though, and a GPS helped us navigate them and be back in Vero Beach within an hour and a half.

astrobrian · « **Reply #160 on:** 03/18/2009 01:52 pm »

care to give a run down of what you are using to take these?

Eksath · « **Reply #161 on:** 03/18/2009 11:18 pm »

Sure.

I shot these from a NASA position that was situated about 4 miles directly south of Pad 39A. This particular location gives a unique shot of the pad as can be seen here. I used a 1200mm focal length lsetup to bridge the gap between me and the orbiter. Specifically, a Canon 1 DsMII with a F/4 600mm lens with a 2X on it.

Andy USA · « **Reply #162 on:** 03/18/2009 11:27 pm »

Quote from: Eksath on 03/18/2009 11:18 pm

Sure.

I shot these from a NASA position that was situated about 4 miles directly south of Pad 39A. This particular location gives a unique shot of the pad as can be seen here. I used a 1200mm focal length lsetup to bridge the gap between me and the orbiter. Specifically, a Canon 1 DsMII with a F/4 600mm lens with a 2X on it.

Please ATTACH images, do not embed. They were way too large for the size of the screen. Thanks.

Eksath · « **Reply #163 on:** 03/18/2009 11:39 pm »

Ok. Will try to embed but i am not sure if my file size will work with attachments hence my linking to preserve quality and give people to option of seeing a high quality image.

Andy USA · « **Reply #164 on:** 03/19/2009 12:20 am »

Thanks, that's worked out great. Remember, people can still see the full size by clicking the images.

Matthew From Florida · « **Reply #165 on:** 03/28/2009 12:35 pm »

I have been able to talk my parents into going over to view the STS-119 landing

Where is the best viewing spot for the STS-119 landing? This will be the first one I have attended in person, don't want to waste this opportunity.

johng · « **Reply #166 on:** 03/28/2009 12:49 pm »

The approach will be from the north. There are 2 options. Go to Garden street in north Titusville and go east across the bridge as far as you can go until the guard shack. The SLF runway ends just south of this road over on the space center. I don't know if they stop traffic at the same place as for a launch, or if you can get closer.

The other option would be to go to the haulover canal bridge. The orbiter flies it's landing pattern almost overhead of this bridge. You don't actually see it flare for landing, but you get a great view of it turning final. You probably have to drive there from the North end of the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge. That's well out of the way unless you are coming from the north.

Matthew From Florida · « **Reply #167 on:** 03/28/2009 12:52 pm »

Thanks for the advice... I'll share how it went after I get back.

Matthew From Florida · « **Reply #168 on:** 03/28/2009 07:21 pm »

Quote from: Matthew From Florida on 03/28/2009 12:52 pm

Thanks for the advice... I'll share how it went after I get back.

Ok, here's the lesson: Don't try to make people not interested in the Space Shuttle take you to an event like this. They did not want to wait for the second attempt and I missed it entirely. What a waste of time!