With several successful missions under their belts, NASA is now well into building the International Space Station. Continuing their efforts with a stepped up schedule that will include some of the most challenging space missions ever, the 2009 shuttle missions are currently targeted for the following dates:
- Atlantis, November 16, 2009
- Endeavour, February 4, 2010
- Discovery, March 18, 2010
- Atlantis, May 14, 2010
- Endeavour, Juy 29, 2010
- Discovery, September 16, 2010
Now that there's a renewed interest in the nation's space program, there is no better time to include the Kennedy Space Center in your vacation plans. With a little planning you might even get to witness a shuttle launch — an extraordinary sight!
On a clear day, it is possible to see the shuttle from many places in Florida. However, there are only a handful of places that offer picture-perfect views and photo opportunities.
- At Kennedy Space Center, you can witness first-hand a towering Space Shuttle or rocket blast into the sky from the closest possible public viewing area.
While this is a wonderful opportunity, launch windows and times are always subject to change and delays. Because of this, it is important to keep your plans flexible and monitor the launch status. Also, be sure to read the Launch Viewing Information, which gives specific instructions regarding purchase and use of your tickets.
You will get a complete FAQ sheet along with your tickets that should answer your quesitons, but please note that specific items are banned from the launch view site — including coolers, backpacks and large beach umbrellas. There is limited seating in the launch viewing area, so umbrella-style folding chairs carried in shoulder bag are usually permitted.
- Jetty Park is one of the most popular, and crowded, places to view the space shuttle. The park is less than a mile from the shuttle launch pad and this is by far one of the best views!
Admission to Jetty Park is just $5.00 per car or $7.00 per RV. Besides being a great place to camp, there are facilities that include restrooms, showers and a refreshment stand. Advance reservations are a must if you plan to camp.
- You can explore the spectacular views off State Road A1A along the Atlantic Ocean in Cocoa Beach, but the best vantage point in this area has to be the Cocoa Beach Pier.
- Shuttle launches have long been viewed from the shore of the Indian River along U.S. Highway 1 in Titusville. Besides being crowded, it isn't the best view after launch because the shuttle is traveling straight away from your line of sight.
- State Road 528, now called the Beach Line Expressway, as it crosses over the Indian River and the Banana River will give you a decent view.
