With the final Atlantis shuttle launch possibly a week away, many want to know what is in the future for NASA and space exploration. Those that attend the next and final shuttle launch will have a chance to see a key piece of the next generation space craft. Those that watch the launch on television will too.
A huge Orion look-alike capsule is on display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and will be placed at the press site on the launch date – July 8th. Expect the press to cover the launch in grand style, but to also touch base on this future Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV). NASA wants the public to be able to view the next new manned space venture that will return astronauts to the Moon and eventually to Mars. That Moon mission is called Orion.
This look-alike capsule was recently transported from Edwards Air Force Base in California all the way to the Space Coast on the back of a tractor trailer. Navigating this massive flight test article was no easy feat. At 17 feet wide, it took up two lanes of traffic. Back roads were taken when possible with patrol officers stopping traffic to allow passage. The cargo attracted a lot of attention!
Along the journey, three stops were made at local museums in Tucson, AZ, Austin, TX and Tallahassee, FL to further expose the public to the new manned craft. It is similar to the Apollo, but larger in design, so people will have some familiarity with this creation. However, it is much more sophisticated and still requires more development, especially where new thermal protection materials are concerned.
As we view Atlantis taking its final flight to deliver supplies, logistics and spare parts to the International Space Station, we will also get a glimpse of our space future with the Orion Capsule. We can only hope this creates excitement and hope for space exploration in the United States of America – not to mention more jobs. As a Central Florida attraction, the space center also hopes that this coverage will keep tourists coming to the center. Now more than ever, this income is needed to support operations.
After the launch, Capone’s Dinner & Show would like to invite you and your gang to attend our dinner show in Orlando/Kissimmee. Although the Beachline will be heavy with traffic, you should still be able to make our 8:00pm show. Use our coupon and get your tickets at half price (good for online reservations too). Be good and hungry, because our dinner buffet is sure to fill you up! Best of luck to Atlantis and crew!
Last Updated on January 19, 2018
