Space Shuttle launch viewing 5/31/08

Autoeng

Why me?
Local time
Today, 05:56
Joined
Aug 13, 2002
Messages
1,302
For the Florida people (Vass / TessB) or others with experience. I am going to be in Florida during the next Space Shuttle launch. Specifically I will be in Sarasota / Siesta Key. I don't want to drive all the way to Cape Canaveral so in what way could I optimize my launch viewing. I am willing to drive inland an hour or so but I don't want to get tied up in huge crowds as we need to be packing that night for return home the next day.
 
I viewed one launch from Tampa during daytime hours. Tampa is about an hour north of Sarasota.

The best view includes an un-obstructed line of sight between you and where the shuttle will be, which is generally North East. You will probably get a better view from a more inland locale, such as Plant City, Lakeland, or Frostproof. I always found standing on the top of a garage was the best (better than indoors).

The thrill is brief but cool.

Enjoy!
 
Take the camcorder and post it on youtube;)
 
I personally don't know the best view. I've not paid much attention to shuttles. I'm not much help here, sorry.
 
I've been able to see the launch from Sarasota before.
In fact, I remember seeing the Challenger trail(s) when I came out of the grocery store in Osprey (just south of Sarasota)

I've also seen it well when I worked in Plant City (North I-75, East on I-4)

I've never tried to find "the best view" as it happens it is merely coincidental that I am outside on some launches.

I HAVE seen it close up before though when my dad worked for NASA. (I was an itty bitty girl back then but I remember that quite vividly.) We lived on Merritt Island... practically went off in our backyard.

But as long as you are in a place that is fairly open... like a parking lot of a grocery store, and the weather is decent, you shouldn't have a hard time viewing it even from Sarasota.

P.S. Vass... your message box is full. :)
 
Thanks all. I guess it's like the KY Derby. When it's in your backyard you don't pay any attention to it. I've never been to the Derby and it's only 2 hours away.
 

Users who are viewing this thread

Back
Top Bottom