Fun Adventures just about anyone can do.....Adventure #3...Shuttle Launch

I know it's a little late to be writing about this adventure as there are only 2 shuttle launches left but hey better late than never!  Attending a Space Shuttle launch has always been on my "Bucket List".  I was lucky enough to attend a night launch of Discovery back in 2009 and last week I attempted to attend they final launch of Endeavor.  Unfortunately the Endeavor launch was scrubbed due to technical issues.  Keeping my fingers crossed I can make it for NASA's second launch attempt of it whenever it is scheduled. 

For now though here are a few tips for attending a shuttle launch.

1. Know that it's a risk attending a shuttle launch....there is always a 50/50 chance of it being canceled due to weather or technical issues

2. Research where you want to watch the launch...there are several great options (we chose Space View Park for this most recent one).  You can even just park your car along A1A should you want.

3. Plan to get there REALLY early...it will be packed no matter where you go!!  For the Endeavor launch we arrived 9 hours early and probably could have gotten there even earlier as it was already filled with people.  The diehards camp out over night.

4. Bring a cooler of drinks and snacks

5. Be prepared for there to be minimal bathrooms around

6. Bring beach chairs, blankets, umbrellas, tents to sit on and under so you are prepared for the weather

7. Bring things to entertain yourself but know that you will also make lots of new friends while there so that can keep you entertained as well

8. Having a camera is a MUST - if you have an SLR bring it....point and shoot works as well though

9. Just remember it's going to be a long day and to not get frustrated

10. After the launch either make a mad dash to your car and try and beat traffic or hang out for a couple hours at the launch site and then attempt your way home.  Traffic is going to be horrible and you will be sitting in it for quite some time

11.  Remember to have fun and know that this is a once in a lifetime thing for most people

View of NASA Vehicle Assembly Building from Space View Park