Hi Folks!
I wasn't around too much lately, but it's all for a good purpose :)
I'll be ariving to Orlando on March 13th intending to watch STS-131 go up.
unfortunately I was unable to get causeway tickets on the NASA sale (they were gone in 30 seconds I think).
can anyone recommend a good place to watch the launch from?
I'm looking (naturally) for a clear LOS to 39A, and I need enough clearance to place my three cameras (Mamya RZ, F50 with 80-200 and D300 with 300/4+1.7TC if anyone really wants to know :)).
and if any of you lives somewhere around and has his "own" super secret launch viewing spot I would be happy to tag along :)
Cheers,
Uri
Most of that area is flat as a pancake, so anywhere is almost as good as the next. The most northern tip of Cocca-Beach I had planned to watch STS-114, but the launch data slipped and we missed it. However ont he STS tour, we got within ~500m. but get a good pair on bincoclars :)
Also bring a portable radio to hear the countdown and liftoff. Preferably a scanner or amateur radio to listen to their 2 meter broadcasts. They broadcast from the very beginning. An iPhone g3s app broadcast NASA TV.
Anybody living in or around Titusville or Meritt to show Uri around and put those cool cameras to good use?
;)
/Admin
I know Jeff lives in that area, where ya at bud? As a matter of coincidence, I'll be moving back to Florida (my homestate) from Huntsville in two weeks. Would be great to meet up if possible. I was planning already to head down that way and check out the launch. I'll be living in the Putnam county area near Gainesville. Little town called Interlachen.
thank K,
I'll send you a PM soon :)
I'm I have a test friday and I havn't started learning (VMware VCP4)
Quote from: schmidtrock on February 16, 2010, 07:00:14 PM
I know Jeff lives in that area, where ya at bud? As a matter of coincidence, I'll be moving back to Florida (my homestate) from Huntsville in two weeks. Would be great to meet up if possible. I was planning already to head down that way and check out the launch. I'll be living in the Putnam county area near Gainesville. Little town called Interlachen.
I went and got married and have been spending precious time with my Wife -- haven't done much simming in the last few months -- but I do check this forum a couple of times a week..
Anyway, found this good article that I thought that I'd share: STS-131 Flight Plan
http://spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts131/fdf/131flightplan.html
Not trying to bump, but Uri... Have you checked out the Space Shuttle Clarion Inn in Titusville? A riverside room gives you the VAB and pads right out front of the door. It's about 6 miles across the river to it all, but it's a fantastic view.
A non-riverside room requires a walk to get to there, but it's not far, and it's well worth the money. If you can watch the launch from there, I've got two pictures I can upload - one of the VAB captured with a 80-400mm lens with a 2x extender by me, and a launch captured with a 75-300mm lens (at probably 125mm) by Larry of Max-Q Entertainment.
Please note these aren't the full sized images, I've had to reduce them down to fit the forum. In the full sized launch image, you can see Tyvek covers coming off the Shuttle, and you can see inside the top of the VAB (not easily, but you can see some detail) in the top right corner.
Clarion Space Shuttle Inn - Titusville, Florida (http://www.clarionhotel.com/hotel-titusville-florida-FL984)
I'd check into the rates now for the next mission - if you want to reserve a room there. They go up to almost $200 a night if you don't grab them early for riverside, and I think around $100 a night for a regular room. A tip, their internet is crap, excuse my french. We couldn't upload anything at all from there, and it took forever just to load webpages. You'll want to either sit in their lobby (best spot for connection), or go to the local McDonalds/Wendy's for free WiFi.
(http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/189/vabclarion.jpg)
(http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/3023/sts125lsullivan.jpg)
Uri,
Jetty Park is a descent view (in Port Canaveral - at the end of SR-528[BeachLine]/A1A) - I think it costs @$5 to gain entrance. It's right on the beach just south of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
So far, I've got Causeway Tickets from Gator tours.. we'll see how it goes. :)
if that shot liftoff was taken with a 300mm lens in titusville I'm good with my 510 on the causeway...
For sure. You will be amazed
Quote from: uri_ba on March 06, 2010, 09:09:55 PM
So far, I've got Causeway Tickets from Gator tours.. we'll see how it goes. :)
if that shot liftoff was taken with a 300mm lens in titusville I'm good with my 510 on the causeway...
It was taken with a Canon Rebel XS - 10.1mp at approximately 125mm, about 7 miles away.
The 400mm shots that are on NASASpaceFlight L2 from the Press Site for STS-129, you can see the Tyvek cover that got hooked onto Atlantis' tail during the first part of launch. ;) That was taken with a Rebel XSi, 12.1mp. As long as yours is that good, you'll be able to take some great photos. Sadly, you won't see much from the causeway from SSME ignition until after she clears the smoke, but you'll get some amazing shots if you can time it right.
Quote from: uri_ba on March 06, 2010, 09:09:55 PM
So far, I've got Causeway Tickets from Gator tours.. we'll see how it goes. :)
if that shot liftoff was taken with a 300mm lens in titusville I'm good with my 510 on the causeway...
Don't forget to wear something WARM. As for food, don't worry - there are tens of CHEAP fast-food (burgers) and soda/coffee makeshift joints dotting the causeway so you're set-up for as much geek-food as you want.
Just make sure that the first shots are posted here for the enjoyment of the entire community, and if they are any good (as your screenshots have proven already), they will adorn our FB presence too (with your permission of course).
Have lots of fun and a safe trip Uri!
/Admin
One last tip, sorry to be "spamming" the thread.
Don't, whatever you do, look through your camera through the whole launch. You'll get great pictures, yes, but you won't remember a darn thing. If this is your only launch you'll make before the program ends, make sure you take some time to watch with your own eyes, especially as she clears the SSME cloud, you'll be simply amazed by the brightness of the SRBs.
I usually shoot with both my eyes open - especially when using long lenses - it makes "pointing" easier :)
But I will defiantly take your advice on it! :)
Admin, FB?
facebook ;)
ohh my.. I'm so slow today :)
that option didn't even cross my mind :)
no problem I won't tell anyne ;). I have to admit, I originally thought it was another NASA acronym :)
Quote from: uri_ba on March 07, 2010, 02:18:43 PM
I usually shoot with both my eyes open - especially when using long lenses - it makes "pointing" easier :)
But I will defiantly take your advice on it! :)
Admin, FB?
The only reason I say that is I did some video of the launch, and I specifically remember two parts of the launch - when she rose above the pad and the SRB brightness, and a little over about 1.5 minutes through, just looking up at the contrail. I was watching my video so much, I really didn't get the full experience. I can remember all the sounds and where I was standing, but I don't remember seeing anything other than my video screen and two times of looking at Atlantis.
Feel free to do what you want, but I really do advise to do more watching than snapping. The only thing I'll do if I go back is watch, point the camera and hope I get something, really. Just watch and be amazed.
I put in for the final (Scheduled) shuttle flight STS-133 from congressman and should hopefully get those but unlike STS-129 my first launch I will basically only watch the launch and not even worry about pics. I wish I could have an ato tracker to take pics ;)
Uri - this is a nice link for you: http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/about/view/view_shuttle.html
/Admin
saw that of course :)
I was hoping someone know somthing the rest of the world doesn't :)
Did you change your arrival for the new target date?
Quote from: uri_ba on March 09, 2010, 10:26:08 AM
I was hoping someone know somthing the rest of the world doesn't :)
Skydive DeLand
A friend of mine just told me they are good in managing a jump so that you are in freefall when the shuttle launches. He could even hear the engines roar in freefall (and you seldom hear anything in freefall).
Armin
I plan to be at Spaceview Park. Info from this site http://www.launchphotography.com/Shuttle_Launch_Viewing.html
One of the nicer places, and a good specific destination point to look for, is Spaceview Park at the northern end of Titusville (about a block south of where the 406 bridge is). The Astronaut Walk of Fame is here too, and provides a nice way to spend the time waiting. A live broadcast of the launch via NASA TV is normally broadcast in Spaceview Park, which is another reason to view from here.
If you have your own scanner, again, tune to 146.9400 to hear the NASA TV broadcast, or AM 1240 and 1350 for information. As viewed from Titusville, the shuttle will arc from right to left to a small degree for ISS flights (and the opposite, left to right, for the Hubble flight in late 2008).
I plan to head that way really early Monday a.m. and be there in plenty of time for a strategic location. Hoping to be there well in advance of the recommended two hours. Barring a scrub, anyone care to meet for breakfast after the launch somewhere? Paging Uri.
You mean "The Astronauts' HALL of Fame" <g> (a nice visit too, BTW)
/Admin
I think that is actually at KSC. This is called a walk of fame. http://www.titusville.com/Page.asp?NavID=207
ETA: Another site with better info http://www.nbbd.com/godo/spaceviewpark/index.html
Quote from: uri_ba on March 06, 2010, 09:09:55 PM
So far, I've got Causeway Tickets from Gator tours.. we'll see how it goes. :)
if that shot liftoff was taken with a 300mm lens in titusville I'm good with my 510 on the causeway...
You know where the K-Mart is? K-Mart is closed and all advertisment is removed. You can ask me - I stay at room number 221 of Clarion Inn - lol
Here my pics from 2nd and 3rd April
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC00499.JPG)
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC00884.JPG)
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC01468.JPG)
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC01646.JPG)
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC01474.JPG)
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC01762.JPG)
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC01426.JPG)
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC00977.JPG)
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC01849.JPG)
(http://geizhalsforum.666kb.at/files/119812/DSC01785.JPG)
Now is that cool or WHAT!
/Admin
the K-mart is on 810 something HWY, it's in your reservation mail from Gator. I can pick you up if you want (but i'll be at the parking lot before 21:00).
Guess I'll see you there tonight :)
(http://upload.ssm-fans.info/images/pano39a.jpg)
Is this a 10,000x10,000 composite pic, Uri?
/Admin
8000*7000 as a matter of fact, I have a bigger one, but my netbook isn't strong enough to stich it up..
Quote from: uri_ba on April 04, 2010, 02:05:44 PM
8000*7000 as a matter of fact, I have a bigger one, but my netbook isn't strong enough to stich it up..
Nice! So you maxed the zoom and got around 0.1 deg FoV and then took multiple shots. Nice way to increase the resolution. Pity you can't do the same while the Shuttle is rolling - LOL!
Another idea: if you have another camera, you can tripod it and open it at Bulb during liftoff and ascent, with max aperture and FoV all the way until SEP. That will create a nice "ballistic" trail of light, and if you're lucky, you'll also capture the two falling SRB fading trails. Try that!
/Admin
lol
I'm going to be there with three cameras, two tripods and a monopod :)
original plan was to take a picture of T-9 to MECO..
Anybody wants to meet up post launch let me know. Would love to meet any of y'all there for the launch.
And don't forget guys: the forum needs lots of pictures of that/those meetings.
/Admin
Quote from: uri_ba on April 04, 2010, 03:32:44 PM
lol
I'm going to be there with three cameras, two tripods and a monopod :)
original plan was to take a picture of T-9 to MECO..
Wish I could - but this "work thing" has me chained to my desk ... sucks..
Quote from: uri_ba on April 04, 2010, 12:45:54 PM
the K-mart is on 810 something HWY, it's in your reservation mail from Gator. I can pick you up if you want (but i'll be at the parking lot before 21:00).
Guess I'll see you there tonight :)
<image SNIP by Admin>
Hi!
K Mart at 810 Cheney Highway is closed - I wrote this because when I was there for the first time I looked for K-Mart - you mentioned when I´m not wrong You are a launch rookie ;)
Greets, Marius
My rental car has a licence plate from North Carolina / SILVER TOYOTA Corolla - will be there at latest 11. pm. Now time for some rest.
rgr, I'm already there. red ford focus, illinois plates... :)
Enjoy the launch Uri!! I will be watching it from my house (Tampa bay area).
Have fun I know I did when I went
:)
i'll do my best :)
I'm off to a little nap :)
C-ya in 2 hours "Astromir" - feel free to wake me up, I'm parked just outside the "Anytime fitness" they have unsecured WIFI :)
I suggest both of you hold up big "SSM2007 Rulez" signs so that you don't miss each-other, LOL!
Enjoy the launch! Less than 4 hours to go!
/Admin
At Space view park now. Great view of the VAB and the pad. Can't wait! My second launch in person. First was STS6 on this same date in 1983, Challenger's maiden voyage. Girlfriend's first and she is really excited!
Nice job guys! If you have the time and connection please post in real-time - on the STS-131 thread!
If you have time, connection AND the necessary bandwidth, post pics in the forum. Width size is 600 pics. Height is no limit. If you don't have the tools, time, etc. to resize, email to groundcrew and we'll upload them on the forum for you, with due credits.
Can we have a quick comms-check?
Who is present at the STS-131 launch at KSC?
Austromir - check
Uri-Ba - check
Schmidtrock - check
... any others?
I'll repeat this post on the STS-131 thread.
/Admin
Well well tell us all about it I am jealous i used to live 2 hrs from their and i would be right their with you guys is I were still their....photos?
I was suppose to hear from Uri_ba directly after launch. Never got that call, He must be completely blown away. Lucky dog.
Florida contingent, REPORT! :D
He must be busy finding his Gator Tours bus among the hundreds that park along the Causeway <g>.
/Admin
just got back to the car (convinently parked inside a Wifi zone)
(http://upload.ssm-fans.info/images/uri4599small.jpg)
Just absolutly awesome view this morning....my best suggestion for anyone whos visiting for any of the remaining launches....the causeway by port canaveral. its 13 miles away but it looks directly at 39A over the water. that is unless you are badged to CCAFS or KSC like some people =).....i hope you found a good spot uri it was an awesome launch
I hope you shot that in RAW and that you'll do some post processing <g>
/Admin
Absolutely sick photo !!! Nicely done!! 8)
Off site view positions: SUCCESS! ;)
Quote from: Admin on April 05, 2010, 01:36:33 PM
I hope you shot that in RAW and that you'll do some post processing <g>
/Admin
RAW+JPEG
"La Partzuf!" :)
(Hebrew slang for "kick A**" - direct translation would be "to the face", usually mis-pronounced intentionaly)
Nice pic there Uri :)
Uri got a real treat this morning as this was one of the most beautiful launches that I've ever seen.... The "contrails" that Discovery was leaving (after SRB sep) was something that I've never seen before -- very interesting...
Also, the rumbling of the Shuttle never, never has reached my house here in East Orlando -=- but this one literally rocked my house for about 30 seconds -- it was truly awesome.
Also, about 15 mins before launch, we got to see the ISS fly over -- never seen that before with the naked eye.... that was a real treat for me and my wife.
Now thats the kind of photo you take and get a poster made out of it knowing you took it makes it even better.their are company that will do that not too expensive.
yep, got the ticket and the patrch to frame it all togeather..
I do have two more cameras that were at long exposures. so I need to develop their films first.
Very nice Uri very nice.