Traveling to Florida’s Space Coast
Photo Credit: www.KennedySpaceCenter.com
Today marks another possible NASA launch at 7:55pm EST of the Shuttle Endeavour at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida, which is located just 45-minutes east of Orlando. An anticipated launch just heightens the visit for travelers and actually even is a destination activity in itself. However, one has to caution that there is no guarantee. There are many complications that can arise that may leave spectators disappointed to not witness one of the most spectacular space-related launches.
I have personally traveled to Florida’s space coast to witness a launch, but unfortunately five minutes prior to the scheduled launch, the mission was scrubbed. While we were disappointed to not see the actual launch in person, it was still a worthwhile journey to see the space shuttle on the launch pad and to partake in what can only be described as a tailgate party. Cars are lined for as far as you can see hours prior to the scheduled launch and people have music and food setting up their own launch party.
For travelers not able to witness a launch, touring the Kennedy Space Center will not disappoint. According to the KSC Web site, there is much to do during a visit from “live action theatrical shows like Mad Mission to Mars, to the inspiring Astronaut Encounter with an actual NASA Astronaut - one of the few people on Earth who have been to space. View ten-story high rockets from all eras of space exploration in the Rocket Garden, walk through a full-size Space Shuttle mock-up, see IMAX space films on gigantic five-story screens, and see an actual Gemini program capsule on display in Early Space Exploration.”
A typical admission to the KSC is $38 adult/$28 child (ages 3-11) plus tax and is not valid on shuttle launch days or December 25th. In addition to the general admission, KSC has put together unique activities that are an additional cost such as “Lunch with an Astronaut” and guided tours.
For kids, there is even a Space Camp offered during the summer allowing participants to actually participate in a space shuttle mission simulation along with other stunning activities. This enriching space experience is designed for kids’ ages eight to 14, youth entering 2nd-9th grades. In 2008, the cost for this week-long program was $295 for the hours of 9am-4pm.
Matchbox® Mega Rig® Shuttle Mission; Photo Credit: www.mattel.com
To help keep the space mission alive, travelers can visit the KSC gift shop for a souvenir including astronaut ice cream or an astronaut helmet. Another great idea, particularly for kids for the holidays, is Mattel’s new Matchbox® Mega Rig® Shuttle Mission. This building system starts as one gigantic space ship and breaks down to 30 different combinations of space vehicles for kids to create. Equipped with cool accessories, including a space arm to grab things, an ATV and a UFO with a space alien inside, the Mega Rig® Shuttle Mission provides kids with hours of fun and imaginative play for boys and girls and adults alike. This new dream inspiring product is easy to transport along for travels too. Suggested retail price is $44.99 and is appropriate for kids age 4+. Visit Mattel’s Web site for more information.
Have you visited the Kennedy Space Center or witnessed a shuttle launch or re-entry?
The launch was a success! Very impressive to watch!