We all know that the shuttle program is coming to a close, which makes me sad. The shuttle program is the program that I knew best. The shuttle program it what got me interested in astronomy. I was about 7 years old at the time. My dad, my sister, my grandfather and I made our first visit to Kennedy Space Center. We had a great time in the rocket garden and in the IMAX theaters. We went to an observation tower and saw launch complex 39. We also went to see the Saturn V rocket that took the astronauts to the moon. One of the most memorable parts, though, was going into the mock up space shuttle Explorer. That was really fun! After we got back home, I was even more interested in the shuttle program. I drew pictures, read books, watched videos/documentaries, and did other shuttle program related things. So.... my interest in astronomy officially began in April 2005. For Christmas of 2005, I got an astro-pack, an orange shuttle launch/reentry suit, and a Meade ETX-80. What a great Christmas!
(Image taken Christmas Day 2005)
The most memorable launch that I remember was Discovery's return to flight, STS-114 on July 26, 2005. I knew about the Columbia disaster and I couldn't wait for Return to Flight. Watching Discovery go up was a beautiful site on the TV. I still remember sitting on the couch, waiting for it to launch. That was fun.
My dad and I are going to see Endeavour launch on April 19th, 2 days after my birthday. It will be my first close-up launch. Usually, my dad and I set up in the back yard and hope for a good view. But this time, we will be viewing from the Visitor Complex. We will bring our 80mm telescopes and cameras. I am hoping that it will be a beautiful evening for a launch.
Just about all of us are sad that the Shuttle Program is coming to a close, but it is the beginning of something else. We
will miss the beautiful launches. The shuttle program has helped pave the way for space exploration. It will be missed.
Wishing clear dark skies!
Matthew
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