OT - Nasa Shuttle Launch

[Jessd]

Hi.

I know this is off topic, I didn't know which board to put it on. Sorry if I put it in the wrong area.

I was checking and they are launching a shuttle when we are on vacation. They have it targeted for July 12th.

Now question for all you experts, do they normally launch on their scheduled days? I don't know if I should include this in our plans. We are there July 9-15th.

What do you all think? I heard it is really something to see, I would hate for my kids to miss seeing something like this.

Thanks!

Jess

 

[Samsma]

Yes, definitely try to include it. You need to go very early if you are trying to get to the coast though. You can see it from the Disney property in some areas if it is clear out I believe, maybe someone else will post the places. Good luck. I'll be leaving on the 11th early

 

[TiggMan]

I've been there several times when launches were scheduled, but all three times they were scrubbed. I think there is a number you can call to see if they are still on schedule. Aside from that, if you haven't been to NASA for the space center tour, definitely do it.

 

[KS Jeff]

We were in MK on the bridge to Tomorrowland when a daytime launch occurred. It was interesting to watch the park come to a standstill as launch time approached. From that distance it's hard to see much more than the smoke trail from the boosters.

Far more interesting was the night launch we witnessed from the beach at DVC Vero. The entire coastline lit up and we were able to follow the light from the main engines for quite a few minutes. I don't recall for certain if we were able to see the SRBs fall away but I think we did.

 

[MelanieC]

That launch was originally scheduled for May. There was another was scheduled for July during that time. Maybe they canceled the May one all together. I am there 7/16-7/31. If it gets moved back at all, I'll be there. Its on my list of things to do before I die!!

 

[civileng68]

You asked if they normally launch on schedule?


In Florida, no. REmember though, this launch didnt go on schedule as it was for May. Exterior foam research held up the process. Maybe you'll get lucky.

You can easily see it from Disney as long as you can see east. It looks like a stream of white smoke going up.

 

[safetymom]

The launch window starts on the 12th. They are being very very careful with this one so we will all have to wait and see if it goes on schedule.

 

[Professor Mouse]

We were at WDW several years ago for a launch. It is great. You can see it from the parks. We were on the monorail and had a great view.