Viewing a shuttle launch and planning a trip [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

rocio

03-15-2010, 01:16 PM

So I have a family with two of my three young kids very interested in the space program and especially the Shuttles. Since we're counting down on the last launches, we're thinking we may take a trip to FL this year after all (we took our first trip to WDW last May and had talked about going back in 3-5 years, mostly because it's not my DH's cup of tea, but also the expense for a family of 5). Of course Kathy's blog helped to get my DH "maybe" on board. He would love to see the shuttle launch.

So of course, if we go to see a launch, being so close to WDW I've been pricing packages "for fun." Have any of you planned a trip around a shuttle launch? I know these get delayed all the time so we're not quite sure how to plan this. Right now we're looking at the May 14 launch (my birthday!). We can't do April or Sept because of our teaching schedules. We maybe could do July, but why do that to ourselves. So what dates would you plan the trip for. If we do WDW, it will be a 4 night stay (got the free QSDP code!)....but still need to see if it's in the budget. May 13-17? May 14-18? Any other configurations?

rocio

03-15-2010, 01:18 PM

Also, should we try to get a hotel near KSC? How far is the launch site from WDW?

WaltD4Me

03-15-2010, 01:25 PM

Also, should we try to get a hotel near KSC? How far is the launch site from WDW?

We went to a shuttle launch in Feb. 2008. It was AWESOME!!!! KSC is about 45 minutes from WDW I would say. I wasn't driving, but it seems that was about how long it took to get there. Through a planning screw up (not mine) we didn't get to KSC until 11:30am. The launch was scheduled for 2pm. Since we were late we could not get on any of the tours. We watched the launch from the main area at KSC where the flight simulation ride is. It was still amazing and actually it worked out okay, we had lunch, toured around the area, rode the simulation ride and did things in the plaza and there was plenty there to keep us interested. I was VERY surprised that it was not all that crowded. There were people in the PRIME spots that got there very early in the morning, but we still got a good viewing location about 30 minutes before. Also arriving when we did, we had to park way back in the lot, but didn't have much traffic to deal with at all.

rocio

03-15-2010, 01:31 PM

Willow1213

03-15-2010, 05:13 PM

We watched the shuttle launch from the causeway in May 2008. It was AWESOME! The only problem we had was a little bit of traffic on the way back to WDW, ok a LOT of traffic, but it was still well worth it. I remember getting the info from the boards somewhere... When I get home I will see if I can find it

WaltD4Me

03-15-2010, 05:39 PM

Thanks for your reply Lisa. This is a scheduled 2pm launch. So when do we need to get there? Also, I saw they sell tickets online the month before and they're already sold out for April's launch. Did you do that? What's the difference between the Causeway and the Visitor Complex viewing areas?

No we didn't have tickets. They were sold out. They sell out fast! The Causeway I believe is a viewing with bleacher seats. It is closer, but I have heard once you get there all there is to do is sit and wait.

We liked being at the Visitor's Center, being able to walk around and do other things while waiting. We got there about 11:30am. Don't know if it might be more crowded for you though because the shuttle launches are coming to an end and more people might be planning to go see the last ones going off.

miss missy

03-16-2010, 12:18 AM

I would love to see the launch on May 14th, we get there that afternoon!! :thumbsup2

iwrbnd

03-16-2010, 12:25 AM

We're trying to do this, too. We were planning on being there this week for the March launch (and our kid's spring break) but it got delayed until April. We changed our plans for the July launch. (I have high-schoolers that can't go in May or Sept) I know they get scrubbed a lot but we're taking our chances. If it gets cancelled then we'll still be at WDW! If you have a facebook page I get a lot of information from becoming a "fan" of their site.

What I hear about causeway vs. visitor center is the causeway is closer but more expensive and hard to get tickets. The visitor center has a tree line that blocks your view until the shuttle gets higher in the air. Our friends watched it from a beach in Titusville where it's free and you have a clear view but is a little farther away. They said it was an excellent way to see it! Good luck!:thumbsup2

cj9200

03-16-2010, 07:11 AM

Thanks for your reply Lisa. This is a scheduled 2pm launch. So when do we need to get there? Also, I saw they sell tickets online the month before and they're already sold out for April's launch. Did you do that? What's the difference between the Causeway and the Visitor Complex viewing areas?

There is a chance that you could still get a ticket the day of because people don't show up. If it is delayed, your chances are better. From what I heard, the causeway especially at the park at the end is a good place to view it and it is free. I have tried a couple of times but the launch was always delayed. Thinking about trying again before it is too late. Good luck.

rocio

03-16-2010, 09:39 AM

Thanks for all your replies and the suggestion to become a fan on FB. I see many if the same questions I have in the discussion board. Am I right that the May tickets haven't gone on sale yet...somebody on there made it sound like they were already sold out. Hmm. Now if they haven't to decide what viewing location is best for our family. Sounds like there is a clearer view from the causeway but less for the kids to do there. How early do you have to get there if you already have tickets? Just trying to figure out how long we'd have to wait around on the bleachers. Any grassy areas foe the kids to run around?

rocio

03-16-2010, 09:19 PM

Another question. For those of you who have watched a launch. How long did it take you to get back to WDW? Some of you mentioned bad traffic. Is this getting out of KSC? The launch is on my birthday and I was thinking of making a dinner ADR for that night, but I'm wondering if it will just be too stressful to try to get back in time. The launch is scheduled for 2:30pm. We do have young kids so we don't want too late a dinner.

rocio

03-16-2010, 09:20 PM

Not that I'm actually planning a vacation to WDW. Nope. Not me. Just playing around with some ideas. Yeah....that's it. :surfweb::rotfl:

myDISboards

03-20-2010, 08:40 AM

rocio

03-22-2010, 01:43 PM

Thanks for the info. From what I'm reading the Causeway is closest and you actually get a view of the launch pad, but there is less to do there and a longer wait. The visitor complex has an obstructed view by trees so you can't actually see the shuttle until after it goes off. But more for the kids to do there. Then Titusville seems like a good place if you can't get Causeway tickets according to this: http://www.launchphotography.com/Shuttle_Launch_Viewing.html I figured I'd put it up here in case any one else is trying to figure this out.

New question. Has anyone here tried a boat cruise to watch a launch. Here is one I found: http://www.indianriverqueen.com/shuttle.cfm Has anybody here done this or done business with this company? Might be a way to view (not sure how far though) the launch with less wait. Anybody try it?

iwrbnd

03-22-2010, 01:46 PM

I've never heard of the water cruise. Sounds like a good idea! I'm hoping somebody has some insight on that. It's cheaper than the tour price!

chillcoupons

03-22-2010, 05:42 PM

We saw a shuttle launch in November when we were in Epcot, We were told that you could watch it launch from the Mission Space area. We headed over there around 1:50 and waited about 10 minutes. There was a small crowd (but crowds are very light at that time of year) and someone was following the launch on a iphone and told us when it launched and moments later it was rising up right above Mission Space. You could see the glow of the rocket engines and the trail of smoke it was quite a sight. :thumbsup2

cv workout

03-23-2010, 03:07 PM

I'll be in the area in May and would love to see the shuttle launch. I was planning to spend the day at Cocoa Beach. That way, if they launch it I should be able to see it and if it's rescheduled I'll still have fun at the beach. Is this a workable plan or do they close the beaches during a launch?

pjacobi

03-23-2010, 03:21 PM

Space Shuttle launches are frequently delayed! Do NOT plan your entire trip around a projected launch date or you will be extremely disappointed when the launch is delayed, perhaps by weeks or months.

Pick the most convenient travel dates for you. If you are lucky enough to see a launch during those dates, consider it extra NASA majic!

You can plan to spend a day at KSC, take the bus tour and view all the exhibits.

-Paul

rocio

04-05-2010, 05:55 AM

I got up super early here in central time to watch Discovery go up on TV. I am now more excited than ever to try to catch Atlantis next month. :cool1: Hope everything goes as smoothly as possible for that one. We have very flexible travel plans so that we can follow the launch dates a bit. Haven't decided how many times we're willing to try if we actually make the drive to KSC and then it gets delayed. I guess we'll see how the kids handle it all. Any of you still planning on trying to make the May launch?

TDS373X

04-05-2010, 07:20 PM

subscribing...We are going in Sept were supposed to go in Feb but work had other plans for me when I rebooked the WDW trip for around the time of DD bday lo and behold a shuttle launch was planned! How exciting! I do have a question for those of you that have been. DD has a sound issue can not tolerate loud noises as in we've never been able to view Illuminations at EPCOT because the fireworks are just too loud for her how loud is a launch? I am crossing my fingers hoping we get to see a launch although during hurricane season I realize it may not happen. We are going to go to KSC one day during the trip anyway just am not sure if it's best to just find a free spot to view the launch and then go to KSC on a non launch day Thank you for any info you can share.

rocio

04-05-2010, 07:58 PM

TDS, become a fan of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/Titusville-FL/Kennedy-Space-Center-Visitor-Complex/96711692268?ref=ts). I have gotten so much information there from the discussion boards from others who have done it. I was following with interest those who were planning for this morning's launch and got many of my questions answered. From their description it sounds very loud from any part of the visitor's complex. They talk about the ground shaking. This website also has some good beginner's info including pictures and videos from the different vantage points so you can decide for yourself which one you're willing to do and maybe gauge the sound level: http://www.launchphotography.com/Shuttle_Launch_Viewing.html

The visitor complex has three viewing areas with the Causeway being the closest and best view but you're there longer and seems like less to do there. The Visitor's complex view is blocked by a line of trees but there is less waiting and more exhibits/activities to do. Tickets go on sale 4-6 weeks before the launch. We hit the 6 week mark for the May launch last Friday but no ticket sales yet. They seem to go faster than ADRs so you have to be ready to pounce! :eek::rotfl2: Oh there are also public viewing areas along the beaches and different tour groups with their own tickets.

aGoofyMom

04-06-2010, 10:35 AM

:goodvibes I will be down there at this time too - my birthday is the day before the OP's! :wave2:

We are looking at the launch, but I may have a scheduling issue. I have an on line course the evening of the 14th. (likely back at the hotel) I have to be somewhere with internet access as it is the first class so I don't want to miss it. I would love to go to the launch, but am afraid of traffic and delays. So far we haven't decided on anything for that day.

rocio

04-07-2010, 12:43 PM

Hey fellow Taurus :hippie:

CosmicGirl

04-07-2010, 06:39 PM

Hey Rocio,

I think we're in the same FB group! :thumbsup2
I just logged on here seeing if there were people who were planning to go to the launch and I recognize your name from the STS-132 group... makes me feel like that singing that song, you know, something about the Earth and its size :dance3:.

As for the launch: I'm waiting to see if I can get tickets and/or get someone to come along with me before I decide if I'm going or not... I saw the STS-127 launch in July and am determined to fly back to Florida to see one of the remaining launches. As someone who's working on a career in aerospace, the time and cost of flying halfway across the world are definitely worth it, but it's not so easy to find like-minded souls (or should I say fools!). Doing all the space stuff on my own doesn't bother me, but just like you I can't help but plan something WDW around it "for fun" and that seems a lot more lonely.

rocio

04-07-2010, 07:19 PM

Uh oh, I've been outed ;) :cool1: Okay, you know I have to ask, who are you in that group? Feel free to send me a private message.

CosmicGirl

04-07-2010, 07:44 PM

Uh oh, I've been outed ;) :cool1: Okay, you know I have to ask, who are you in that group? Feel free to send me a private message.

Look for the profile pic with the countdown clock in it! But I've been very quiet so far, only joined the group a day or two ago and until I know whether I'm going or not I don't want to get too excited.

rocio

04-07-2010, 07:50 PM

A clue! It's like hunting down a hidden Mickey. Or a fellow space geek with a penchant for Disney as well.

rocio

04-07-2010, 07:55 PM

Is that you with the camera? That really was a hidden Mickey! ;)

CosmicGirl

04-07-2010, 08:17 PM

Is that you with the camera? That really was a hidden Mickey! ;)

That's me :goodvibes

truck1

04-07-2010, 11:23 PM

Ive just skimmed this thread, and it may have been covered already, BUT if you plan on purchasing launch viewing tix for NASA online,( I am still going round with KSC about this) make sure that you are in the virtual "Wait Room" well before the appointed time. I tried to get causeway tix, which are the clsoest point to view the shuttle, and they were gone at 901.They went on sale at 900.I was "Selected" to purchase tix at 915ish.(after getting the waiting room at 845) The only tix left at that point were for the Visitors Center. Which I took.
There are several free places as mentioned in the above posts that you can see the launch from. The further you are from KSC, the longer it will take before you see it and will see it for less time than if you are closer.
I dont think they offer the bus tours, the same day as the launch as all of the busses are spoken for taking visitors to and from the viewing areas.
Before and after they are modified.

safetymom

04-08-2010, 05:42 AM

There are many great spots to see the launch besides KSC. We were in Space View Park and you could see the launchpad across the water.

rocio

04-08-2010, 06:54 AM

safetymom

04-08-2010, 08:37 AM

We arrive several hours early. Really not much for kids to do in Space View park. Any viewing spot you find is going to be pretty crowded.

rocio

04-08-2010, 10:30 AM

CosmicGirl

04-08-2010, 11:08 AM

Man, waiting for your ADR window to open has got nothing on this wait!

So true! The ADRs depend on the trip, but in this case the trip depends on the tickets...

truck1

04-11-2010, 08:55 PM

Truck, do you know what the process is like if you call? I'm planning on using my computer, but I will be out of town tomorrow and without my laptop so I'm hoping they don't release tomorrow but if they do I'll have to call.

Kathy, is that where you've watched it from? How far in advance did you get to the park? Is there anything for kids to do there during the wait? I know it's a park, but it has to be too crowded for much right? :teacher:

Sorry, forgot to mark the page.
If you try and call on the day that the tix go onsale, its 1 step left of impossible to even get on hold. I tried the day I got our tix,because the website was having issues and never got to talk to someone before 1 pm.Before that I kept getting an all circuits busy message and to call back later.

Heres a link to use to Sign up (http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/event-sign-up.aspx)for the upcoming launches. I havent gotten anything yet from them, so I doubt the tix are onsale for the May launch yet.Prob any day now.(just rechecked my inbox and deleted folder)Theyll give you a few day warning on when they go on sale.

truck1

04-11-2010, 09:11 PM

Yeah, I'd imagine it would be crowded everywhere but at least the Visitor's Complex has their exhibits open. I'm hoping to get tickets for that. Man, waiting for your ADR window to open has got nothing on this wait!

Youll get a choice for tix.Either the bus tour which will take to within 5 miles of the launch pad with a unilimited and unparalled view, or the Visitors Center.I got the Visitor Center tix in Feb.We sat next to the sign that says Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex.We were in that area with maybe 100 at the most people.If you get the bus tour tix, you can still go see what else is available.You just have to be on the bus prior to a certain time.Things should be open when you get back also.Id strongly suggest brining a towel or blanket to sit on.If not a sometype of lawn chair.

Heres a pic of what you can see as far as a launch.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y204/engtroll/Space%20Shuttle%20Endeavor%20Night%20Launch%20Feb% 202010/DSC_0168.jpg

rocio

04-12-2010, 12:54 PM

rocio

04-12-2010, 12:55 PM

By the way, that picture is awesome!!! I can't wait! :banana::banana::banana:

beachwarmer

04-12-2010, 02:27 PM

I just wanted to post here and thank everyone for the great info.

Alas I will not be trying for tickets since it will be just too loud for my crew. I am going to try for a viewing spot a distance away to protect little ears.

Do you think we could see anything from the Radasson Hotel at Port Canaveral? This was my seven year old's suggestion as she loved to watch the MK fireworks from our balcony at BLT on our last trip....a hotel with a balcony to watch from.....:goodvibes

truck1

04-12-2010, 05:50 PM

You shouldnt have a problem at the Raddison at PC. Another suggestion if you could get them, would be the KSCVC tix. Its not loud there at all, and the sound is less then you would hear from a thunderstorm.When we were there, they had the person in charge of the Visitors Center, and I cant think of his name off hand,came out every hour for about 30 minutes to talk about the shuttles, the program etc, and answer questions. Hes a retired astronaut.

truck1

04-12-2010, 05:52 PM

Thanks for coming back, Truck. Thankfully I didn't need to find out the hard way that calling would not be a good idea since the tickets were not released on Friday. Now I'm back to having computer access. I'm on their e-mail list, but nothing yet. Still waiting patiently. I just need some Paciencia y Fe (Patience and Faith): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slLT-ttYbH8

Welcome. Like I said, just be in the waiting area before the scheduled time.

By the way, that picture is awesome!!! I can't wait! :banana::banana::banana:

Thank You.

myDISboards

04-21-2010, 11:03 PM

Search youtube for Causeway Viewing and Visitor Complex.

Note that mission STS-131 = Space Shuttle Discovery Launch targeted on April 05, 2010 at 06:21 EST

In case you're not aware of NASA Causeway Launch Transportation Tickets - Launch Postponement –Your Launch Transportation Ticket is labeled “VC LTT STS-131 ADULT (or CHILD).” This ticket provides transportation to the NASA Causeway launch viewing site. This ticket will be collected from you when you board the bus to the launch viewing site. If launch is postponed two scenarios are possible: 1) If you board a bus to the NASA Causeway and launch is postponed, all elements of this ticket are considered used in full. While you will no longer be able to access the NASA Causeway, you will be invited to return for the next launch attempt with your Visitor Complex admission ticket. Return viewing will be from the main Visitor Complex grounds. Please keep your vehicle placard to return for the next attempt. 2) If launch is postponed before you board a bus, your Launch Transportation Ticket will be valid for the next launch attempt.

DS13 and I witnessed the Space Shuttle Discovery "night" Launch on April 5, 2010 at 6:21AM EDT from NASA Causeway launch viewing site about 6 miles to the launch pad for general public.

"Once in a lifetime experiences!!!” besides Space View Park, Titusville, FL and nearby areas.

Remember sound travels slower than light, you won’t hear the engines roaring sound about 20-25 seconds after takeoff from about 6 miles out.

The Ustream video was recorded with iPhone 3G [my LEFT hand] streaming LIVE for disboards.com community while [my RIGHT hand] with Sony Hard Disk Drive (HDD) camcorder on a tripod for close-up/zoom where DVDs burned for personal/home entertainment.

Do whatever it takes to go see one since three more day launches left in 2010 and then the space shuttle program will be retired!!

First link to my LIVE feeds for disboards.com from April 04-09, 2010 (Savanna View/Kidani Village/Jambo House/Space Shuttle Launch) (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2435647)

Second link to my LIVE feeds for disboards.com from April 04-09, 2010 (Savanna View/Kidani Village/Jambo House/Space Shuttle Launch) (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2435645)

Link to my Ustream video for Space Shuttle Discovery Launch STS-131 (http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/5979219) (no password required)

From KSC Visitor Complex to Kidani Village, we took "back roads" in little over 2 hours. Route 405 to Route 50 to Route 408 to Route 4 (tolls = $1.75).

truck1

04-23-2010, 04:14 PM

Not exactly sure what happened, but the Launch Tix for STS 132 for Friday May 14th go onsale Monday April 26th at 9am.If you plan on buying tix online, youll need to be in the waiting room as close to 8 am as possible for a chance.

rocio

04-23-2010, 05:23 PM

Oh I know what happened. We killed the KSC website on Thursday morning with all of us trying to get on. Their servers were overloaded and they finally got their site back up yesterday. Looks like they outsourced ticket sales to a vendor who probably has more capacity. In the meantime we're all a nervous wreck but building friendships as we wait. :happytv::grouphug::cool2:

safetymom

04-23-2010, 06:34 PM

I hope it works better on Monday. I really want tickets to the causeway!!!

rocio

04-23-2010, 06:37 PM

Kathy, I saw your suggestion on the KSC FB page.....I let out a NOOOOOOOOO!

Good luck getting the tickets you're looking for...as long as they're not mine ;)

safetymom

04-23-2010, 07:15 PM

I hope we both get tickets but I really feel that KSC AP holders should get to purchase tickets first. I doubt they will do anything since they have so few shuttle launches left.

truck1

04-23-2010, 09:53 PM

Heres the link (http://www.tickets.com/kennedyspacecenter/) for anyone else who didnt get a chance the first time around

myDISboards

04-24-2010, 03:02 AM

Delete double posts due to disboards.com "hanging" (maintenance mode?) on Saturday April 24, 2010 between 4:00AM to 4:15AM EDT.

myDISboards

04-24-2010, 03:09 AM

There are many great spots to see the launch besides KSC. We were in Space View Park and you could see the launchpad across the water.

I hope it works better on Monday. I really want tickets to the causeway!!!

DS13 and I witnessed the Space Shuttle Discovery "night" Launch on April 5, 2010 at 6:21AM EDT from NASA Causeway launch viewing site about 6 miles to the launch pad for general public.

"Once in a lifetime experiences!!!” besides Space View Park, Titusville, FL and nearby areas.

Remember sound travels slower than light, you won’t hear the engines roaring sound about 20-25 seconds after takeoff from about 6 miles out.

The Ustream video was recorded with iPhone 3G [my LEFT hand] streaming LIVE for disboards.com community while [my RIGHT hand] with Sony Hard Disk Drive (HDD) camcorder on a tripod for close-up/zoom where DVDs burned for personal/home entertainment.

Do whatever it takes to go see one since three more day launches left in 2010 and then the space shuttle program will be retired!!

First link to my LIVE feeds for disboards.com from April 04-09, 2010 (Savanna View/Kidani Village/Jambo House/Space Shuttle Launch) (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2435647)

Second link to my LIVE feeds for disboards.com from April 04-09, 2010 (Savanna View/Kidani Village/Jambo House/Space Shuttle Launch) (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2435645)

Link to my Ustream video for Space Shuttle Discovery Launch STS-131 (http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/5979219) (no password required)

From KSC Visitor Complex to Kidani Village, we took "back roads" in little over 2 hours. Route 405 to Route 50 to Route 408 to Route 4 (tolls = $1.75).

DS13 and I witnessed STS-131 from NASA Causeway.

NASA Causeway is about 6 miles to launch pad vs. Space View Park is about 12 miles to launch pad.

Hope you get the tickets for NASA Causeway on Monday April 26, 2010, if not go with one of the Florida tours such as http://www.spaceshuttlelaunchtours.com/.

Once you experience NASA Causeway, Space View Park is not the same!!!

We wish we could be in the count down clock area 3 miles to launch pad together with the press, NASA families/friends, and high ranked officials.

safetymom

04-24-2010, 04:59 AM

Nothing beats being able to see the launch in person no matter where you watch it from!!! Even watching it from my backyard is a thrill.

rocio

04-24-2010, 07:17 AM

Are you inviting us over for a backyard BBQ if we can't get tickets? ;)

:rolleyes1

I make great great guacamole and I can figure out my dad's carne asada recipe.:banana:

safetymom

04-24-2010, 07:29 AM

myDISboards

04-25-2010, 08:35 AM

Are you inviting us over for a backyard BBQ if we can't get tickets? ;)

:rolleyes1

I make great great guacamole and I can figure out my dad's carne asada recipe.:banana:

that's a good idea! :thumbsup2

rocio

04-25-2010, 10:25 AM

that's a good idea! :thumbsup2

Thanks for the back roads tip by the way! Did you take that way going to KSC or was that not necessary?

myDISboards

04-25-2010, 11:06 PM

Thanks for the back roads tip by the way! Did you take that way going to KSC or was that not necessary?

No, it was not necessary. We took Beachline Exwy and arrived at KSC around midnight per KSC/email for STS-131 launch.

safetymom

04-26-2010, 08:48 AM

:sad2::sad2:Well I won't be at KSC for the launch. Very disappointed in how they handled the sale of tickets:sad1:

truck1

04-26-2010, 11:15 AM

What happened? I want to get Casueway tix for the next launch for us. I may just go over to the center and buy them there.

safetymom

04-26-2010, 11:20 AM

You can't buy them at KSC. They have to be purchased online or by phone.

myDISboards

04-26-2010, 11:21 AM

With two laptops and two phones and two different virtual waiting rooms ID such as
frontline.purchasenow2.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?agency=KSCE_PLAGENCY&pid=6757287&roomid=1 or 2 or 3 or 4 or 5 (maybe more)

We were at the ordering pages between 9:05-9:10AM EDT for Causeway tixs for Captcha verification and just "hanging" (never completed Captcha verification) and no Causeway tickets. Then we were offered only Visitor Center tixs only....no thank you!

So we timed it...Causeway tixs OUT by 9:10AM EDT (no selection button)....order page at 9:34AM EDT stated "Please note that all Launch Viewing tickets are Sold Out."

The main concern for me with these Florida tours is their refund and cancellation policies at http://www.spaceshuttlelaunchtours.com/index.html (sold out)
and http://www.gatortours.com/rezwebdirect.asp?agcid=0&TOUR_ID=146

** Note ** The Causeway Launch Transportation Ticket (LTT) for these Florida tours were "brown" tickets where KSC Causeway Launch Transportation Ticket (LTT) were "orange" tickets and other colors for STS-131 launch. We noticed at bus boarding transportation area on April 05, 2010, they called out "brown" tickets and other colors for boarding BEFORE "orange" and other colors tickets.

safetymom

04-26-2010, 11:24 AM

I was on the ordering page about 9:01 and couldn't get past the captcha screen. Very frustrating. I kept trying and didn't get any. I also tried for visitor center tickets and had the same issue.

rocio

04-26-2010, 02:33 PM

I have to admit I had tears welling up when I couldn't get Visitor Complex tickets this morning. I knew it was a high possibility, but I was hopeful and waited so long in that waiting room. Just my emotional (non-rational)reaction. It didn't even let me into the purchase page until 20-30 minutes after. So frustrating.

Sigh.

I feel okay now. I went ahead and booked a tour company's visitor complex tickets. I wish they would have had different waiting rooms for those who wanted Causeway versus Visitor Center tickets as I'm sure I would have had an easier time. As it was, all the people let in who didn't get Causeway moved on to VC whether they were going to use them or not.

For those of you who were hoping to see the July launch, it's been moved to November: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/24/science/space/24nasa.html

Kathy, sorry you couldn't get the tickets you wanted either. I can still make you some guacamole.

safetymom

04-26-2010, 03:22 PM

I feel the same way. I am going to need something stronger than guacamole to feel better. :) :) I am pretty sure my daughter thinks I am fooling her about the tickets. I was so close.

rocio

04-26-2010, 03:33 PM

My husband makes the best mojitos. Even Cuba has nothing on him. Shall I have him make you one too?

safetymom

04-26-2010, 03:35 PM

That might work. :)

truck1

04-26-2010, 03:35 PM

I was on the ordering page about 9:01 and couldn't get past the captcha screen. Very frustrating. I kept trying and didn't get any. I also tried for visitor center tickets and had the same issue.

I have to admit I had tears welling up when I couldn't get Visitor Complex tickets this morning. I knew it was a high possibility, but I was hopeful and waited so long in that waiting room. Just my emotional (non-rational)reaction. It didn't even let me into the purchase page until 20-30 minutes after. So frustrating.

Sigh.

I feel okay now. I went ahead and booked a tour company's visitor complex tickets. I wish they would have had different waiting rooms for those who wanted Causeway versus Visitor Center tickets as I'm sure I would have had an easier time. As it was, all the people let in who didn't get Causeway moved on to VC whether they were going to use them or not.

For those of you who were hoping to see the July launch, it's been moved to November: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/24/science/space/24nasa.html

Kathy, sorry you couldn't get the tickets you wanted either. I can still make you some guacamole.

Safetymom I had the same issue for the Feb launch and they called me a liar saying they have no record of me trying to get past the captcha screen.First time I could read the words, then when I hit the audio it came in with 2 different people talking over each other with 2 completely different sentences.Had to go back to the waiting room.Then got a second chance,and something else happened.Took me 3 times before I fianlly was able to get the Visitor center tix.Sent an email to KSC and after haunting them for several days finally talked to a manager who said they only see 1 attempt by me and that the tix were gone by 901.They basically wouldnt do anything.

As far as getting tix at the KSC, I want to try and take my kids and some of their friends (or their classes)before our president pushes the knife into the heart of our space program.Its a piece of history that if Congress fails to save, they will never have the opurtunity to see again for a long time if ever at the rate they are going.So Id have to get more then the 6 tix that are allowed online.I tried calling them at 3 oclock today to find out what I need to do for a school group and got nowhere fast.Couldnt even talk to a human being.

The 1 good piece of news is this.If for some reason the launch gets delayed on the origianal date, a certain number of tix will become available again.Not sure how they would do that but its something to keep in mind.

Imho, the way they are doing the tix and their customer service is less than stellar.

Thanks for the heads up rocio.I hadnt seen that yet.

safetymom

04-26-2010, 03:42 PM

I am sorry to hear you had problems also. I tried numerous times for the tickets. I know they won't do anything but I wrote several emails to KSC.

Maybe we should all have a pity party together.

truck1

04-26-2010, 04:57 PM

We could do that. Im going to try and talk to a live human being sometime this week and see where I can get.Worst case scenario I will go to KSC and sit on someones desk.(I have an ulterior motive.I want to go see a Navy Dive ship that is in PC for a few weeks from Haiti) I cant understand where going to KSC the day that the tix go onsale and getting them there is such a big deal.They used to do it,in the past prior to Columbia.Then again this is the goverment contract we are talking about.

safetymom

04-26-2010, 05:07 PM

I wish you luck!!!

MeLaNie9

04-26-2010, 05:35 PM

:sad2::sad2:Well I won't be at KSC for the launch. Very disappointed in how they handled the sale of tickets:sad1:

What happened? I want to get Casueway tix for the next launch for us. I may just go over to the center and buy them there.

We were so hoping for Causeway tickets - there are 8 of us flying down from Cleveland, OH just for this (me, DS x 2, DH will be going to WDW for a few days but my DB, DSIL, and parents are going just for the launch). When we were kids, we sat at a restaurant in Titusville for hours trying to catch a shuttle launch that was postponed and then cancelled. DB thought we should try to catch a launch as a family before the shuttles are finished.

DH had two computers going and was on the phone, DB had one computer and was on the phone. They were very concerned about the 6 ticket limit that was seemingly suddenly put into place, but it didn't matter because once each of them got into the ticket buying "room" all causeway tickets were gone - DB actually was trying to check out and could not get past the captcha screen fast enough and so lost the tickets. We ended up with KSC complex tickets. Now I go to Ebay and see Causeway tickets on sale for the launch for high hundreds/thousands. We just wanted to buy them to really use them for a once in a lifetime experience, not make a profit! We certainly cannot afford to pay what they are going for! Even the KSC complex tickets are up there at a huge price! :sad2:

I love mojitos, but don't know if that would even help now! We are so disappointed, mostly for our parents who tried so hard years ago for us to experience a shuttle launch and were so excited to do this!

NoahCA

04-26-2010, 06:51 PM

Hello Friends! I am new here. I am going to be in the Orlando/ DisneyWorld area for my first ever trip to these parts! I am so excited.

Magically my Girlfriend was able to get causeway tickets for the "fingers crossed" May 14 launch! We will be staying at the Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort Lake Buena Vista.

What is the best way to travel from that location to the Kennedy Visitors center?

I know that traffic will be terrible so we are going to allow up to 5+ hours extra driving time. We will probably be trying to hit the road at 3AM or maybe earlier if we need to.

I want to ask you the experts to please help me and give me advice on which roads to take, if there is another forum section or person you know who might have some extra information I would be interested in hearing about that as well! Thank you again for letting me a part of this forum and I look forward to hearing back from you!

truck1

04-26-2010, 07:48 PM

myDISboards

04-27-2010, 06:52 AM

I was just with friends' eBay "watch this item" list (history list) for all space shuttle launch tickets for STS-131 Discovery April 05, 2010.

EACH Causeway ticket sold/averaged $200! (not surprised at all...almost all Causeway tickets came with KSC vehicle placards).

rocio

04-27-2010, 07:40 AM

We were watching them go into the $1000s yesterday.:scared1:

myDISboards

04-27-2010, 07:58 AM

We were watching them go into the $1000s yesterday.:scared1:

Yup, I believe it (just searched on eBay)....just keep watching within 7 days of launch if all goes well on May 14...can't imagine the prices on Causeway tickets by then....I'm only interested in Causeway tickets.

I'm sorry that I feel sorry for those bidding above $1,000 on Visitor Complex tickets (no direct sight to launch pad)...Space View Park is FREE!!!

rocio

04-27-2010, 08:02 AM

Or you can buy them through a tour company for about $100 each. Still about twice as much as getting them from KSC, but MUCH cheaper than ebay. Yikes!

NoahCA

04-29-2010, 11:23 AM

Traffic is not as bad as its made out to be since most of the construction has been finished on the Beeline.Took me a little over an hour to get there from my house and about 3 to come home from the feb launch.
The easiest way is to take I4 East to the 528(Beeline Beachline)Take the 528 east and follow the signs for the KSC.Stay to the left as much as you can after the Airport toll plaza as the road will split and one side will go to the port the other to KSC.
Figure about a 2 hour trip but give your self about 3 hours prior to the time it says to be there.Coming back Id say about 3 hours at most.

Great! Thanks so much for the information. I was looking at the "back roads" and seeing if there might be any "Short cuts" but I think I better stay with your suggestions and stay on the 528 to KSC. We will just have to leave very very early in the A.M. If you have any other tips on the drive I would love to hear them. :)
Thanks again!

truck1

04-30-2010, 12:08 AM

Great! Thanks so much for the information. I was looking at the "back roads" and seeing if there might be any "Short cuts" but I think I better stay with your suggestions and stay on the 528 to KSC. We will just have to leave very very early in the A.M. If you have any other tips on the drive I would love to hear them. :)
Thanks again!

Unless there is a accident or there is a brushfire that closes the 528, I wouldnt worry.

The only other thing I can think of, if you can swing it, bring a folding lawn chair or at the very least a blanket to sit on.A radio, deck of cards or something else to pass the time wouldnt hurt. Also, bring sunscreen.Its getting warmer here by the day.And an umbrella.JIC.Even if it rains for a few minutes while your there, doesnt mean that the shuttle wont go.

Dismom+two

04-30-2010, 06:28 AM

I have no answers for you but I was out there at KSC yesterday and here is picture for you of The Shuttle Atlantis sitting on the launch pad waiting for May 13th!!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e124/gardengeek1230/Atlantis.jpg

rocio

04-30-2010, 07:26 AM

Woo hoo! There it is!!! :cool1::banana::woohoo::dance3::cheer2:

myDISboards

04-30-2010, 08:45 AM

I have no answers for you but I was out there at KSC yesterday and here is picture for you of The Shuttle Atlantis sitting on the launch pad waiting for May 13th!!

Correction: May 14th, it all goes well!! Go Atlantis Go!!

Bringing back memories for DS13 and I for STS-131 Discovery launch on Monday April 05, 2010 from NASA Causeway!!

Edited: added KSC pic 4 days after STS-131 Discovery took off

We also did the “Guided Tour - Discover KSC: Today & Tomorrow” on our second complimentary visit within 7 days of launch, a 2-hours tour, where I bought the tickets online KSC website which I chose a time on drop down boxes. We received special pink stickers read “KSC TOUR, name, time, SPECIAL GUEST”. We got on an all-white paint scheme bus with more comfortable seats, NOT the buses with red/blue stripes and “Kennedy Space Center” written on sides of the buses. These red/blue stripes buses are for tours on the day of paid admissions and launch day purposes.

Our KSC tour brought us closer to everything including launch pads explained the tour guide. The KSC tours on the day of paid admissions are not the same explained the tour guide.

This picture taken inside that all-white paint scheme bus with no flash and no zoom.

http://i561.photobucket.com/albums/ss51/myDISboards/DSC00262.jpg

Dismom+two

04-30-2010, 09:05 AM

Correction: May 14th, it all goes well!! Go Atlantis Go!!

Bringing back memories for DS13 and I for STS-131 Discovery launch on Monday April 05, 2010 from NASA Causeway!!

I stand corrected!! :)

myDISboards

04-30-2010, 11:46 AM

I have no answers for you but I was out there at KSC yesterday and here is picture for you of The Shuttle Atlantis sitting on the launch pad waiting for May 13th!!

Correction: May 14th, it all goes well!! Go Atlantis Go!!

I stand corrected!! :)

what?? you stand corrected!! ???????

you originally mentioned May 13th (Thursday)

I corrected you May 14th (Friday)...tentative date per KSC/NASA

Remember launches can be scrubbed at the last seconds

rocio

04-30-2010, 04:11 PM

what?? you stand corrected!! ???????

you originally mentioned May 13th (Thursday)

I corrected you May 14th (Friday)...tentative date per KSC/NASA

Remember launches can be scrubbed at the last seconds

She was agreeing with you "myDISboards" http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/I+stand+corrected

myDISboards

04-30-2010, 07:00 PM

Pardon me!

Dismom+two

04-30-2010, 07:07 PM

Thank you Rocio for having my back....I was agreeing with the date correction.

mykidsrqts

05-03-2010, 10:23 AM

Hi all,

I'm looking for a little advice. We'll be staying at the CBR and have tickets through one of the tour agencies to go see the shuttle launch. The tour bus will pick us up at the Swan at 6a.m.

Any suggestions on how to get there that early? We will have a car. Will the Swan allow us to park there for the day?

Thanks in advance for your help!

rocio

05-03-2010, 10:51 AM

You can park there, but there is a parking fee. This is why I chose to get picked up at ASMusic. As a Disney guest, you can drive there and park there for free.

mykidsrqts

05-03-2010, 10:54 AM

Rocio,

Are you traveling through Gator tours too? They didn't give me a choice about pick up locations. They just told me the Swan. But I'd rather park for free at ASMusic.

Also, I recognize your name from the facebook conversations. I don't participate as much but I was keeping up on the ticket dilemmas. Glad to see you got tickets!

rocio

05-03-2010, 11:18 AM

Yeah, I don't shut up over there do I? :rotfl:

Yes, I'm going through Gator Tours and when I called the guy tried to put me in for a Swan pick up and I told him I rather do do All Stars Music as I didn't want to pay for parking. He said he had never heard that you had to pay for parking at the Swan. I wanted to tell him he should read up on the disboards ;)

He said that was fine but that it was further from where I was staying. I think I'll be okay driving that extra 10 minutes if it means free parking :hippie:

mykidsrqts

05-03-2010, 11:42 AM

Thanks for the tip, Rocio. I'm going to call Gator Tours back and switch to ASMusic. Maybe I'll see you on the bus! We're arriving at Disney on May 9!!!:banana:

mykidsrqts

05-03-2010, 03:36 PM

NoahCA

05-05-2010, 08:01 PM

pktbMouse

05-07-2010, 09:11 AM

We are staying at CBR and will be driving...is there no easy way anywhere else to park other than Space Park? I know its free but Ive been told not to go near it unless I plan taking 5 hours to get back out!! Also be there at least 4 hours before hand...we have a 2 yr old in our family and I cant see him sitting that long. Is there anywhere we can park where we can still see it going up? How close would you need to be to actually hear it in miles?
thanks in advance.

safetymom

05-07-2010, 09:58 AM

I watched the last one from Space View park and it took an hr. and 15 mins down and 2 and a half hours back.

rocio

05-07-2010, 01:55 PM

mykidsrqts: We're watching from the VC so our pick up isn't until 8am.
Noah: I have no idea but I can't imagine it taking 3 hours. Remember people are being let in in batches so it will be easier to get in than to get out.
pktbMouse: This is why we're watching it from the VC....lots for them to do there. We sacrifice a good view, but oh well. Bring lots of sunscreen, an umbrella, and some balls?

truck1

05-07-2010, 09:07 PM

I have just received the Launch Causeway viewing tickets via fed ex.
It states that I need to be at KSC no later then 6:30 AM.

I am going to be coming from Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort Lake Buena Vista,
since the Launch is scheduled for 2:04pm. And I will be heading to KSC to be there at 6:00 do you still think I would need to leave 3 hours earlier to make it to KSC? (Leaving Holiday Inn Sunspree resort at 3:30 am!?)
I will be following Truck1's advice regarding taking the road 528.

Thanks so much!

An hour and a half to 2 hours will be fine to get there.Id lean a little closer to 2 hours though since you have never driven that way before.Its not a big deal on driving,I just dont know how you drive. We were there for the night launch and didnt hit any traffic at all,even getting into the Visitors Center Lots.

myDISboards

05-08-2010, 05:47 AM

With 3 launches left (July postponed to November), and if you want to be as close as possible to the launch pad, whether be Space View Park or NASA Causeway or count down clock area, DS13 and I would do it again in a heart beat no matter how long it takes EACH way to KSC or come back to Orlando area.

DS13 and I witnessed STS-131 Discovery Launch (April 05, 2010) from NASA Causeway. You have to witness the engine roaring sounds in 20-25 seconds about 6 miles from NASA Causeway.

We wish we could be in the clock down clock area about 3 miles to the launch pad with the press, NASA families/friends, and high ranked officials.

To KSC we took beachline no traffic...return to orlando we took back roads in little over 2 hours.

MeLaNie9

05-08-2010, 03:24 PM

We just found out that we could have gotten launch tickets from our congressman. After we struck out getting causeway tickets for next Fri, DH contacted our congressman, thinking maybe they would have some tickets for Ohioans wanting to see a launch. Sure enough, they do have tickets, we were just too late for the upcoming launch. :sad2: I am not sure which tickets they are, but maybe this info will help someone else out there looking to go to one of the final 2 launches and interested in avoiding the nightmare of the KSC ticket-buying situation!!!

We just got our KSC ticket package! We are really excited! So far, weather looks ok for next Fri. Of course the rest of trip, they are calling for rain! We spent last May in WDW soaked to the bone in the monsoon! We are praying for great weather on the 14th and beyond (we will be in WDW the 18th-23rd).

rocio

05-21-2010, 10:59 AM

Just got back from our trip last night and I just have to say it: That was freakin' AMAZING!! I still tear up just thinking about it and am amazed that not only did it launch on schedule but that we got to witness this awesome event! All the stress, frustration, waiting, traffic, all worth it! Seriously. Disney world was great too, but it doesn't compare to those two or so minutes of watching Atlantis take off. It made the trip. We did have a great time at Port Orleans Riverside and WDW. Got to see the end of the Flower and Garden festival and got to enjoy WDW at a more relaxed pace this time as this was our 2nd time there. I enjoyed it much more that way. We also had no ADRs and I think that contributed to the more relaxed pace. We saved the stress and rushing for my birthday launch instead. No better way to celebrate a birthday! Thanks for all the help I got from here and whoever sent me to the KSC facebook page as I was able to find a specific group for this launch.

Kathy, were you able to watch it go? I hope so!