We got up and 3AM and drove about an hour to Haulover Canal which is as close as you can get to the launch pad. It is about 10 miles from the launch site. Even at that distance you could see the launch pad. The moon was a golden sliver in the scattered clouds. It went off without delay and was spectacular. It lit up the whole sky, and we could see it for a long time. Just as I heard a woman next to me say, “I thought it would make more noise”, we were hit with a roar that made it feel like the ground was shaking. It was all over so fast, and we headed home and slept for a few hours. Well worth the trip.
Right after lift off
You can see the shuttle just in front of the ball of fire at the top of the photo.
Separation of the booster rockets
Great photos! We are in Ocala area, and we got up both nights to watch for the launch, too. Such a clear night, and the orange glow showed up first. Then the orange ball rising up through the tree line and emerging into the open sky. Even at our distance, it was amazing. Thanks for posting these.
ReplyDeleteWe usually just watch from our back porch, but having been teased by the cancellation the night before, we were determined to get close.
ReplyDelete