Tips on viewing a space shuttle launch?

[Beausoir]

My family will be sailing back into Port Canaveral on a shuttle launch day.

From what I've read, it's a madhouse of thousands of people. I have 5 young kids. Are there any tours that park you on a beach somewhere so you can view?

Any tips would be appreciated.

[SPKrazy]

1. don't get too close to the flames

don't stare directly at the bright lights of the flames

wear special glasses to protect your eyes

wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from the "sunburn" from the bright flash

now what is it you are viewing again? :think:

I'm getting confused.

:silly:





wait...













shoot, i have no idea?
:shrug:

[conscious evolution]

2. earplugs

Luanches are the loudest thing you will ever hear.It is so loud you can actually SEE the sound approaching.

[Cabcere]

3. If you're me, stay the hell away

:P Nah, not really - but as a Challenger baby, I feel like I'd probably be some kind of a jinx or something. :silly: I don't have any advice for you, but it sounds like a cool experience - let us know how it goes? :hi:

[Cannikin]

4. I envy you. I'm afraid I wont get to see one before the program ends.

[Beausoir]

5. I'm debating whether it's worth it to stick around for another 24 hours.

I'd like to see one but my kids are all so young.

Sounds like more hassle than it is worth?

You can't get tickets to get close so you are stuck at some campground with tons of other people. No shelter, no facilities.

I just can't decide.

[Cannikin]

8. I would personally, but I've been a shuttle fan since the first launch. I get teary eyed watching...

them since the return to flight after Challenger.

[BlueJazz]

9. It's worth it....Take my word for it ...It's worth it.

I saw my first launch years ago and I drive over to the coast for every major launch.

The sight of this Huge Beautiful Monster powered by millions and millions of horsepower,
being push into the sky with a 1/3 mile long... 400 foot wide flame, composed of gorgeous colors,
is a sight you won't regret staying for.

The pictures and TV are extremely pale in comparison.

It's like trying to describe a sunset to a person who has been blind since birth.

[Countdown_3_2_1]

6. Don't shine laser pointers at the windows.

and never shout, "Boom, baby, BOOM!"

Its not a good idea to release hundreds of mylar baloons just before the launch!

Don't discuss plans for an important luncheon on the cell phone:
"No, the Luncher isn't ready yet! Give me a moment!"

[Generic Brad]

7. Don't stand directly under the rockets when they ignite

It might singe your eyebrows.