Space Shuttle Discovery (STS-119)

Space Shuttle Discovery (STS 119) launched on March 15, 2009 at 7:43 pm. I drove out to Titusville, FL to watch the launch, and it is very nice to be able to hear the noise that the shuttle makes.





As it got darker, the contrail left by the shuttle started glowing with wonderful colors from the setting sun. Of course, these could have something to do with all of the nasty chemicals that the shuttle spews out in that smoke refracting the light, but it was still nice to look at. In contrast with Titusville's older buildings, this could have provided some great pictures, but I'm not entirely happy with how they came out.



Here's a video of the launch.

Space Shuttle Endeavour

On November 14, 2008, the Space Shuttle Endeavour (STS-126) launched into orbit to meet up with the International Space Station. With the Shuttle being retired in 2010, the number of future shuttle launches is well into the single digits. In fact, tonight's launch was the last shuttle launch that is scheduled to occur after dark. It's kind of sad, since night launches are the best type to watch...

Space Shuttle Discovery- STS 124

The Space Shuttle Discovery launched into space from Kennedy Space Center on May 31, 2008 at 5:02 pm. It's job is to deliver and install Japan's Kibo laboratory to the International Space Station. Where I viewed the launch, there were some low clouds that blocked the view of the shuttle for a few seconds, but beyond that there were clear skies. It was even clear enough to see the boosters separate from the shuttle!

Here is a video of the launch that I filmed. A little shaky in the beginning, but it soon improves:


Of course, NASA TV always has some impressive videos of the launch that end up on Youtube. Like their video of the launch:

Or their video of the shuttle's external fuel tank falling below the shuttle:


Only seven shuttle launches left, then nothing until the Orion program starts in 2014(if it happens)...