Kennedy Space Center (KSC) opened at 6:00 am. We heard that traffic would be a big problem on launch days even though we were just 15 minutes away. We were told that 15 minute drive could take up to 2 hours on launch day. We had to be there by 9:00 am. We arrived before 7:00 am.
The sunrise from the causeway on the way to KSC. The largest building on the left is the rocket assembly building. In the middle of this picture (where you can't see) is one of the launch pads. Both shuttle launch pads were loaded. Atlantis would be launching on this day and Endeavor was ready in case of an emergency. This was going to be the last time we would see two space shuttles loaded on the launch pads.
The first thing we did was take advantage of their bus tours because KSC would be shutting the tours down at 8:30 am. KSC is a very big complex that includes a wildlife refuge. On the day of the launch, many things are not available like touring the launch pad. Also, once you are at the complex and the gates close, no one gets in or out during that time. Security is extremely tight.
Rocket Assembly building
On the tour we went to a building that housed the Saturn V Rocket. The biggest rocket ever made.
Lunar Module
Breakfast under the lunar module
We also went outside because our little tree hugger wanted to hug a palm tree.
The closest we were going to get to launch pad.
Did I mention that KSC had over 10,000 people visiting that day. Yes it was a zoo and it was also very hot!
Back at the main visitors center, Joshua could not wait to go see the Rocket Garden.
There was a stage with astronauts speaking throughout the day. A large video played showing the astronauts being loaded into the space shuttle.
Our little boy loved every minute of this day but it was so hard waiting on the launch. He like his parents does not really enjoy large crowds of people or long lines. The waiting was becoming almost too much to handle combined with the heat and lack of shade. I could not imagine how the astronauts felt as the
Commander was loaded 3 hours before the launch. Could you imagine being strapped in your seat for 3 hours? Thankfully for us, near the rocket garden there was a play area with a water feature. All was well with us!
Can you believe we were the only parents enjoying the water? After we played a Grandpa joined in and few other people.
Launch time was getting closer. We were all cool and Joshua was dry, changed and ready for the launch.
Waiting
More waiting
And then the count down........
Our little boy's joy was incredible!!! I see it, I see it!!!!
Then we heard it. We have a wonderful video of Joshua and the launch.
Stay tuned for Day 2 at the KSC.....
Comments (4)
wow, what an awesome day!!
What a dream come true for Joshua!!!!! What a day!
I've always wanted to see a space shuttle launch. And photograph it. I love living vicariously through you!
No, I can't imagine being strapped in for three hours before launch, either. What if you had to go to the bathroom?
@crunchy - They (the astronauts) wear diapers in case they have to go to the bathroom.
Vickie--What an absolutely awesome trip--one that Joshua will always remember. BTW--he looks adorable wearing his beloved astronaut suit at KSC. I can't wait to hear about the rest of your trip.