Kennedy Space Center has begun the countdown clock to the shuttle Endeavour liftoff on November 14, 2008 at 7:55 PM. This is one a just a few manned, night launches. There will be 7 astronauts on board. It will be a 15 day mission to the International Space Station. If the mission is a success, if will double the number of astronauts the station will ba able to hold in the future.
If you have never had the opportunity to see one of these it is well worth it. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Living here in Melbourne Florida, I am able to stand in my driveway and see the breathtaking views of the liftoffs.
NASA is carefully watching the weather report as they are indicating that a front is in the forecast that could bring in inclement weather. This mission has previously been scrubbed.
Here is a link to read the full story.
that for you
Sandy - These launches are still a thing of amazement for me...especially the night launches!
Sandy, what a great opportunity it is to witness that spectacular event. Living here in St. George Utah I've never had that chance. My daughter worked in DisneyWorld last summer and was able to visit the Space Center. She could not believe the size and magnitude of the shuttle. TV doesn't do it justice! Thanks for the great post:)
Sandy, you should take some photos of the launch and share them with us on here.
Hi Gary, You and I are so truly blessed to live in KSC's backyard. My husband sets his watch for every single launch and has never ever missed one - he says that no two are the same. Let's keep our fingers crossed that it actually takes off tomorrow night! Do you take advantage of the Free Brevard County Resident KSC weekend? I missed it this year - but love going.
Hi Erika, You are absolutely correct! Seeing it up close is so different than seeing it on TV. It is phenomenal! Make sure you see if yourself sometime in your life.
Hi Rich, I hope that my camera will be able to do it the justice it deserves. I'll see if I can't get you some good pictures. Hope you're well!
Hi Sandy - I have always been infatuated by the space program and all the advances we have made because of their efforts. I have never seen a launch but certainly would love to do so at some point in time.
It's amazing how so much of this gets by the general public now days. Launches have taken place and we only know about them after they have initiated their mission. We will always get some news about them at some point in time. In the early years they were considered a huge event; today the media doesn't jump all over them unless something spectacular happens.
Jon, I hate to hear that you have never seen a launch! They are incredible - especially the night launches - the entire experience is something you will never forget as long as you live. A day at Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral is a day to remember. Every year they have a Free Brevard County residents day - usually in September. We always try to go. It really gives you an understanding of what they are really doing up in space. It's unfortunate for those that don't live around here that you barely hear anything about the program or the missions. We have it all over the news and papers here. I think it's sad that the media doesn't cover them anymore!