Optional Cape Canaveral Tour?

[louisehadden]

A few Swalphins ago, there was an optional pre-conference Cape Canaveral tour (this was when there were still NASA shuttles) - any thoughts on this?  They have / had a shuttle simulator which kind of thrills this old geek....  Not that there won't be excitement enough at the conference!

[Rick_SAS]

I assume you mean "Kennedy Space Center." Although there are no longer shuttles on the pad, you can see Atlantis from about 20 feet away, which is even better. It is a lot of fun for any space and history buff. they also look ahead, with a new exhibit dedicated to the challenges of a manned mission to Mars.

Even if there is no group tour, it is easy to rent a car at the Airport. It takes about 1 hour to reach the Space Coast (on a toll road), and it is a straight shot, so easy to get there.  I'd allow 5-6 hours to tour if you want to include the bus tour and the Apollo/Saturn V Center.

[AndrewHowell]

I'd be interested in getting a group together - best before or after SGF? (Thinking before..)

[louisehadden]

Yes, I think before is best as well! I'll probably be a presenter coordinator and will be booked up myself from Sunday on...

[slugolicious]

That'd be cool. I'd be up for carpooling for a tour, but unlike others, I'd prefer after SGF when all the pressure is off and I can enjoy it.

[AndrewHowell]

It depends when people arrive and how they feel? I'm coming from Oz, so that will be a 25 hour flight (give or take), depending on wait times in LA or Dallas. Plus timezone adjustment..

The reason I suggested doing it beforehand is I find attendees to tend to use the weekend before to do both pre-SGF SAS stuff, plus explore to nearby surrounds; whereas by the time the Forum ends, most people tend to be "done" and go home on the final afternoon.

Anyway, just a thought.. We can decide close to the event once we have a better idea of the agenda..

[AndrewHowell]

Hey Louise, I'm starting to finalise my timetable, so definitely hoping to include a visit to Cape Canaveral / Kennedy.

I arrive Thursday afternoon, so free (albeit slightly jetlagged) Friday & Saturday, but have to leave Wednesday evening.

So wondering who's up for a car-pool tour?

Andrew.