Did I miss the thread? Watched it on NASA TV, have never, ever missed a launch in the history of the Shuttle. I am awed every time I see that machine pound and thump it's way out of gravity's reach. I know a few other fly guys on here share the same enthusiasm. Has anybody ever watched one in person? I will admit being moved to tears every time that candle is lit, knowing the history behind it: the engineering prowess, the bravery, the tragedy that has gone before.

Every launch I have the same news reel of memories playing back in the back of my head and give thanks for the men and women who stepped forward when President Kennedy asked for souls to carry the spirit of the United States of America to space and the moon! Technology really hasn't advanced at the same speed since the late 60's, and I hope that returning to the moon, and the science and technology involved in doing that with frequency heralds a new beginning in our world leadership in technology and industry. Space, as an extension of human exploration, has brought advances in almost every daily routine we earthbounders follow, and unthinkable things like curing cancer can be made possible by the spirit that brings the willingness to try.

I salute the brave souls in orbit, the brilliant minds it took to get them there and the cooperation that brings nations together in peace in the name of the quest for human knowledge.

 

Joel I am always in awe of the launches as well. Usually I don't miss any but this past launch I was in Dallas for a visit, was supposed to leave out Saturday afternoon but due a mechanical problem with the aircraft I didn't make it back until Sunday afternoon missing the spectacular night launch.

Here's a couple of shots I took during the 4th of July launch, which is 2 blocks away from our house ... the night launches from here are amazing. This is around 60 miles away.

 

Awesome! Stood across the cape once and can say there is NOTHING that compares to that feeling (except maybe being in the cabin)! I don't believe NASA has yet invented a containment system for the bodily "events" that would ensue were I to be permitted to accompany a crew. Wouldn't stop me from going though, everybody'd just have to dodge the weightless brown sharks for a bit!

 

It's amazing how when you watch it appear to be just at this steady, but not slow, pace. Though in reality that thing is really moving, just amazing achievement. I can't beleive there are actually people who want to do away with the space program.

- Chris

 

I feel the same as you about the industry/science/etc. I am a child of the Apollo era and it has shaped me into who I am today. But you know what? I don't think we'll ever go back to that era of technological achievement; the reason being is that back then we did it to conquer the challenge. Today, there are very few that are motivated by that reason. In fact I dare say that if there isn't a profit in it, folks won't do it. If we return to that desire to achieve and then see what good comes from it, we'll be back to that level of progress and society will grow.

 

Stevie ray i have about the exact same veiw everytime i watch it, but im looking south (jax beach).

I think hkiefus hit the nail on the head unfortunatly. If theres no profit in it, then nobody sees the reason behind it. I think the only thing thatll really get people motivated is the whole mission to mars deal. Or maybe one day when space flight isnt seen as such an amazing acheivment youll take a trip to space, go around the moon, and back to earth, $400, think of it like a cruise.

Im deffinatly all for the whole space exploration deal, but i dont think anyone else is government wise.

 

this is part of the reason it's cool. the science is the other.