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Author
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Topic: KSC Visitor Complex: Launch viewing options
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topmiler
Member Posts: 148
From: eastleigh, hampshire, UK
Registered: Jul 2012
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posted 03-31-2015 05:49 PM
  
Anyone have any comments or handy tips for viewing launches from the LC-39 Observation Gantry area, as now offered by the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex? LC-39 Observation Gantry offers a premium, up-close view of the rocket on the launch pad and during lift off. Just 5.5 miles away from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, guests can feel the force of the launch and hear the roar of the engines. This area features lawn and bleacher seating and live launch commentary. The package includes launch transportation, a light snack and a souvenir t-shirt. Launch Transportation Tickets to LC-39 Observation Gantry are available for $49 in addition to admission. Call 855.475.8415 to purchase tickets. Tickets are limited and only available by calling the Reservations Department. |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 42988
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 03-31-2015 06:03 PM
Ben Cooper recently updated his launch viewing guide and writes this about the LC-39 gantry: The LC-39 Observation Gantry, a viewing tower that is one of the stops on the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex bus tour, is the newest viewing location now being offered. And it is the best ever, allowing you to get as close as just 2.3 miles for an Atlas 5 launch or 3.4 miles for a Falcon 9 launch (and 5.5 for Delta 4). This is the closest viewing of any launch ever offered to the public. If you get the chance to buy tickets for the LC-39 gantry, GO FOR IT! The three-level tower offers slight elevation for some, or you may find yourself on the grass in front of it, both with a clear view across the water to any of the launch pads. |
PeterO
Member Posts: 399
From: North Carolina
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted 11-28-2016 07:07 AM
I'm planning on viewing the WGS-8 launch through the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, and I have a couple of questions. - Are the extra-price viewing options at the Saturn V Center and LC-39 Observation Gantry worth the price? Or will viewing from the Visitor Center bleachers be fine?
- Is it really necessary to arrive at the Visitor Center by 10 a.m., as suggested? I can see that back in the shuttle launch days, but it seems excessive for a routine satellite launch.
Thanks for your advice!Editor's note: Threads merged. |
GACspaceguy
Member Posts: 2476
From: Guyton, GA
Registered: Jan 2006
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posted 11-28-2016 07:27 AM
I have viewed the launches of three different vehicles from the LC-39 Observation Gantry and it is well worth the extra. Not sure about this one but for the three I attended, the ticket included a tee shirt, food and water/sodas. I would arrive at the suggested time as these do get crowded, not as much as shuttle but crowded just the same. |
PeterO
Member Posts: 399
From: North Carolina
Registered: Mar 2002
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posted 11-28-2016 07:57 AM
Thanks, that's exactly the "been there, done that" advice I need.  Unfortunately, although Observation Gantry tickets were available yesterday, they're gone now, so I'll have to settle for the Saturn V Center. As if seeing any launch in person can be described as "settling for!" The Observation Gantry tickets still do include the extras you mentioned. |
Ben
Member Posts: 1896
From: Cape Canaveral, FL
Registered: May 2000
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posted 11-28-2016 10:33 AM
The Saturn V Center's distance for Delta IV is nearly identical to watching from down at the Port, eight miles. It is not necessarily worth it for this one, but it is up to you. If you are touring and have not been there before, combining the Saturn V and the launch is a fine idea.You do not need to arrive at 10am unless you are doing a full day at KSC. If you are just coming for the launch, get there about three hours before at the most.
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