Space: Noun
1. The region beyond the earth's atmosphere containing
the other planets of the solar system, stars, galaxies, etc., universe
On Monday, May 16, my husband and I had the opportunity to
watch the 25th and final launch of the space shuttle Endeavour. TheEndeavour was constructed as a replacement for Challenger, which
was lost in the launch accident in 1986.
We viewed this historical moment from Titusville, along-side
the Indian River. Even though we have witnessed numerous launches,
we are always in awe of what we are experiencing...the excitement isalways new and fresh, as if experiencing it for the very first time.
Endeavour lifted-off, as scheduled, at 8:56 am. As always, it was
breath-taking...
My husband waiting for launch time... |
The large building in the center is the VAB (Vehicle Assembly Building). |
Me - People watching... |
A Seagull in the clouds... |
Fish jumping... |
Me waiting for launch time... |
Countdown, 10...9...8... |
L i f t o f f !!!! |
Behind the clouds... |
Part of the launch experience is the crowd...so many people have come
from out of state, even out of the country, for the once in a life-time
chance to view a space launch...
Cars and spectators can be seen for miles along US HWY 1... |
A typical street corner... |
The crowd includes many photographers & motor homes... |
And sometimes...photographers ON motor homes. |
There are also vendors selling posters, T-shirts, post cards and assorted
"space memorabilia"...