One Last Chance to See Space Shuttle Atlantis on the Launch Pad

If all goes according to plan, July will mark the end of the country’s space shuttle program. Space shuttle Atlantis is set to blast off into space on July 8th. This means there are only a few short weeks left to see the shuttle perched on her seaside launch pad. Then, the era of manned space flight will temporarily come to a close. Future U.S. manned launches will be years, if not decades, down the road.

There are two options to see the space shuttle sitting on the launch pad. Canaveral National Seashore provides a cheap and fun (who doesn’t want to spend a day at the beach?) way to see Atlantis. Kennedy Space Center is your other alternative – but it will cost you!

Canaveral National Seashore
The southern edge of Canaveral National Seashore butts right up against the Kennedy Space Center. Only in Florida can you spread out your beach blanket in the shadow of towering rockets. Canaveral National Seashore is rustic – there are no towering high rises or condominiums on this beach. The seashore reflects the natural beauty of Florida’s Atlantic Coast and space ships!

As you enter the southern part of the Seashore, you will get great glimpses of the famous Vehicle Assembly Building. There are ample pullouts, heading out to the beach, where you can see Atlantis perched on her launch pad. You will be about 5 miles away, but on a clear day you will get great views. Bring your binoculars and long range camera lens for some terrific pictures.



Once you hit the beach, toss off your sandals and begin walking towards the south. You will be able to see Atlantis once again perched on the pad. NASA does restrict beach access at a particular point. Don’t try to break through the barrier. The area is monitored by armed security personnel. The Seashore will close a few days before the launch. For more information and entrance fees, visit www.nps.gov/cana

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
This isn’t your typical visitor center. It’s filled with guided tours of the space center, IMAX movies, rockets, encounters with former astronauts, space themed memorabilia, and even a space shuttle themed ride. The guided bus tour will take you as close as civilians can get to space shuttle Atlantis. One of the tour’s stops will be at the LC 39 Observation Gantry. It’s up to you how many stairs you want to climb to see the Space Shuttle perched on the pad. You will still be a few miles away, but the views are impressive. Plus, you get to see that famous countdown clock and drive right past the Vehicle Assembly Building.



Admission prices for a day at the complex are around $43. Discounts are given for military personnel. Certain tour areas may be closed a few days before the launch. For more information, visit www.kennedyspacecenter.com