The first launch of NASA for 2013 is Atlas V 401 which had a succesful lift off last January 30 at 8:48 PM. Hubby and I were at our usual favorite location to watch it along US 1. NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-K (TDRS-K) lifted off aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 rocket from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.
This January, there is a scheduled upgrade of NASA's Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (Space Network). The United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 will provide communications with NASA's fleet of Earth-orbiting science spacecraft and that includes the International Space Station and NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. TDRS spacecraft is needed to ensure that the communications network is able to provide critical services to user spacecraft in the next decade.
From where we live, Port Canaveral is just across the Indian River which is about 3 minutes from our place. We can see it clearly along the river banks. The place along the boat ramp from where we viewed the launch were crowded in fact, parking space were full.
We had a good spot to watch the launch. It was a thrilling and fascinating experience eventhough this is not the first time that I witness shuttle/space launch.
The next launch in Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida is scheduled on March 1. The mission is SpaceX CRS-2 Commercial Resupply Services flight via Falcon 9. The launch will take place in Space Launch Complex 40. SpaceX CRS-2 will be the second commercial resupply mission to the International Space Station by Space Exploration Technologies or SpaceX. Expect that I will take photos so you all can see. Thanks for always visiting my blog. I will see you next time.