How I Am Becoming An Astronaut

Astronaut Application SENT! :)

2012-01-21T21:31:00.001-05:00

Astronaut application official submitted!!! :-)

I think I would enjoy this view!

2011-10-17T23:20:00.001-04:00

Ask a question to Astronaut Mike Fossum!

2011-10-17T23:17:00.003-04:00

Want to ask a question to an astronaut in space? Now's your chance! If you have a question for the commander of the International Space Station, let SPACE.com know! This Wednesday (Oct. 19), SPACE.com will be speaking to NASA astronaut Mike Fossum, who is currently living and working aboard the station. He also happens to be my favorite Aggie!http://www.space.com/13303-space-station-astronauts-reader-questions.html

Astronaut Candidate Selection Timeline

2011-10-02T20:47:00.001-04:00

Fall 2011 - Vacancy Announcement opens in USAJOBS

January 13, 2012 - Vacancy Announcement closes

March-July 2012 - Qualified Applications reviewed to determine Highly Qualified applicants. Qualifications Inquiry form sent to Supervisors/References and civilian applicants contacted by mail to obtain an FAA medical exam.

June-September 2012 - Highly Qualified applications reviewed to determine Interviewees

August-October 2012 - Interviewees brought to JSC for preliminary interview, medical evaluation, and orientation. Interviewees will be selected from the Highly Qualified group and contacted on a week-by-week basis.

October 2012 - Finalists determined

November 2012-January 2013 - Finalists brought to JSC for additional interview and complete medical evaluation

March 2013 - Astronaut Candidate Class of 2013 announced

June 2013 - Astronaut Candidate Class of 2013 reports to the Johnson Space Center

Reference: http://astronauts.nasa.gov/content/timeline.htm

This made me smile today......

2011-09-29T18:41:00.002-04:00

NASA WILL ACCEPT APPLICATIONS IN THE FALL OF 2011 FOR AN ASTRONAUT CANDIDATE CLASS OF 2013. PLEASE CHECK THIS WEBSITE FOR UPDATES.

http://astronauts.nasa.gov/

Final Space Shuttle Mission - STS-135

2011-07-07T08:14:00.003-04:00

It really hasn't hit me yet that this is the last space shuttle mission. I am sure that if I still worked out at Kennedy Space Center, I would most definitely have that eerie feeling as the co-workers you worked with for so long start taking different paths and the workload starts decreasing. You don't realize how much of the country is in the dark about spaceflight until you're not in states like Florida or Texas where shuttle missions and spaceflight are always in the news.

Space Shuttle Atlantis is the shuttle that I worked on the most as a lead for the Thermal Protection System. I worked with an amazing team, learned so much, and am grateful to have worked on what has always been a key part to the United States history, spaceflight. Hopefully we will establish a path forward to continue our spaceflight exploration efforts.

Even though there is a high chance of rain in the forecast for tomorrow (70%), NASA is pressing along with flight preparations. If all goes as planned, The last shuttle flight will take off tomorrow from Kennedy Space Center at 11:26am EDT.

Launch Countdown of STS-134

2011-05-16T07:52:00.003-04:00

So far the countdown is going smoothly! Shuttle Endeavour is poised for blastoff at 8:56 a.m. EDT (1256 GMT) on a 16-day flight to deliver an exotic particle physics experiment and a hefty load of spare parts to the International Space Station.

Mission Status Center Updates

Endeavour's Final Mission: STS-134 Space Shuttle

2011-04-20T08:04:00.003-04:00

Endeavour's final space shuttle mission is scheduled for next week, April 29, 2011. The mission will include four-spacewalks, deliver supplies, spare parts and a $2 billion particle physics detector (Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer) to the International Space Station.

Celebrating Manned Space Flight

2011-04-12T15:13:00.001-04:00

The United States and Russia are joined at the hip in space as the world marks the 50th anniversary of the first human space flight, Soviet Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin's solo mission around the Earth on April 12, 1961. The day also marks the 30th anniversary of NASA's first shuttle flight, another milestone that has the Russian concerned as the orbiters near retirement, leaving both countries at least temporarily unable to transport large cargos to and from Earth orbit.

Upcoming talk at Lowell High School!

2011-03-28T08:06:00.003-04:00

I'm excited for an upcoming talk I have at Lowell High School!!! On April 5, 2011 I will be talking to Lowell High School students on my engineering career and the cool stuff I do as an engineer.

The talk will be in support of Vibes & Waves in Action, a K-12 education project that involves a cross-disciplinary network of researchers in the Colleges of Engineering, Education and Arts & Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Lowell and high-school teachers and students in the school districts of Lowell and Lawrence, Massachusetts.

http://vibes.uml.edu/Profiles/damarissarria.html

Did you get to see the Supermoon!?!?!

2011-03-21T08:31:00.004-04:00

The largest full moon in more than 18 years – a so-called "supermoon" – did not disappoint eager skywatchers around the world Saturday when it rose, big and bright, into Earth's night sky.

The full moon of March was 221,565 miles (356,575 kilometers) on Saturday, March 19 just 50 minutes after it hit its full phase, making it the biggest and brightest full moon since 1993. The "supermoon" phenomenon occurred because the moon was in its full phase and just 50 minutes past perigee – the point of its orbit that brings it closer to Earth.

Below are some shots by some photographers that capture the beauty of the full moon. Check out more images at http://www.space.com/11178-supermoon-photos-2011-skywatcher-images.html

Honoring the Space Shuttle Program's 30-year Legacy

2011-03-18T15:00:00.000-04:00

A unique photo was taken designed to honor the space shuttle program's 30-year legacy and the people who contribute to safely processing, launching and landing the vehicle.

A Time of Mixed Emotions at Kennedy Space Center

2011-03-16T16:29:00.003-04:00

Discovery landed last week ending not only a 13-day mission, but a 27-year spaceflight career. Preparations are now in work to retire the orbiter which will eventually be placed on public display in a museum.

Endeavour now sits on the launch pad awaiting a launch for April 19. On Monday, an accident involving in the death of James D. Vanover occured from the launch pad during preparations of Endeavour. The incident is being investigated it was a very sad day at Kennedy Space Center. This will be the final mission for Endeavour and it has been confirmed that the commander will still be Mark Kelly, husband of congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.

SWE Boston WOW! That's Engineering!

2011-03-05T16:59:00.001-05:00

Since last summer I was actively planning an outreach event for girls in grades 6-8. Together with the MIT Lincoln Laboratory and the Society of Women Engineers in Boston, we hosted a full day of engineering workshops to engage and encourage these young girls in the fields of math, science, and engineering. After the students checked in, they were directed to tables with all sorts of different donated hardware such as Rock Band guitars, printers, computers, old cell phones, etc. The girls were given screwdrivers and allowed to take any item apart to explore its technology. Best of all, they didn't have to put it back together!! Throughout the day, group rotated in 4 workshops: Robotics, Solar Energy Car, Electrical Circuit, and Lip Gloss mixing. Each workshop was hands on and the girls got to leave with what they built during the activity. During lunch, we had a Liquid Nitrogen demonstration where the girls had the opportunity to smash pennies, flowers, and marshmallows that were dipped in liquid nitrogen. The event was such a success, that we're planning the next one for this July!!!

STS-133: Last Launch for Shuttle Discovery

2011-02-24T07:51:00.002-05:00

During this 11-day mission, Discovery will deliver two key components—an Italian-built Permanent Multipurpose Module and the Express Logistics Carrier—that will provide spare parts and storage capacity to the ISS. Discovery will also deliver Robonaut 2, which will become the first humanoid robot in space.

Launch is set for today, Thursday, Feb. 24, 2011, at 4:50 p.m. EST.

Follow the launch at: http://spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts133/status.html

Shuttle Discovery (STS-133) launch delayed to late February

2011-01-07T07:49:00.002-05:00

NASA shuttle managers need more time to investigate and repair the cracks in shuttle Discovery's external fuel tank. Thursday, they delayed the launch of Discovery's final mission again, moving out of the next launch window, which extended from Feb. 3 to Feb. 10. No new date was established, but the next window extends from Feb. 27 through March 6. The date could be advanced some, but February is a busy month for the launching of Russian, Japanese and European cargo capsules to the station. Meanwhile, engineers continue to investigate why the cracks appeared during a Nov. 5 launch scrub. (full story)

All-in-One: Solar Eclipse, ISS, Sunspots!

2011-01-05T07:38:00.001-05:00

Belgian astrophotographer Thierry Legault's picture of Tuesday's partial solar eclipse also shows the International Space Station passing over the sun's disk.

Happy New Year!!! What's in Plan for 2010?

2011-01-01T14:36:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year, everyone! Let's start this year off with a blog post!

It's hard to believe that I have been in Boston for 8 months now. I absolutely love my job and living in this city. I think 8 months is good enough to say I've gotten settled into the area, the new job, my first experience with an actual snowy winter, new friends, and a puppy (Higley)!

Now time for the realistic "how-can-I-improve" list. There are so many things that I want to work towards. My main priority for the first quarter is an event I'm coordinating for the Society of Women Engineers this coming March. We're planning a full Saturday of engineering workshops for girls in grades 6-8. While I knew it was going to be a lot of work, I'm blown away by everything that has to come together to make an event this big happen.

Other personal things on my list include:
Blog!
Take a photography class to really make the most out of my camera
Eat healthy and keep my exercise routine going
Teach myself sign language
Read more books
Plan a ladies camping escape trip in the woods
Keep in touch with friends better
Run a half marathon
Learn Japanese
Become a Big Sister

Let's be thankful for all that we have and for the support we've had from either family or friends. I hope everyone has a successful 2011 an good luck if you're working towards any personal goals!

Welcome, 2011!

Burt Rutan Retires....

2010-11-05T08:38:00.001-04:00

If you’re an aerospace engineer or space enthusiast....you know of Burt Rutan. An innovative man crafting flight vehicles with a complete “think-outside-the box” design. Well now Rutan retires...

Read more...

STS-133 Shuttle Discovery Launch Delayed to 11/5!

2010-11-04T14:25:00.002-04:00

With rain showers and low clouds sweeping over NASA's Florida spaceport, agency managers decided early Thursday not to fuel the shuttle Discovery, delaying launch another 24 hours to Friday at 3:04 p.m. EDT. While conditions will improve in the wake of a cold front, forecasters are predicting a 40 percent chance of high winds that could cause another scrub.....Here's the weather outlook over the next days.

Friday @ 3:04 p.m. EDT: 60 percent favorable, concerns for low-cloud ceilings and launch pad winds

Saturday @ 2:41 p.m. EDT: 40 percent favorable, concern for launch pad winds

Sunday @ 1:15 p.m. EST: 70 percent favorable, concerns for crosswinds at emergency KSC runway and launch pad winds

Monday @ 12:52 p.m. EST: 90 percent favorable, slight concern for crosswinds

STS-133 Shuttle Discovery Launch Delayed to 11/4

2010-11-03T10:12:00.001-04:00

The shuttle Discovery's launch on a space station resupply mission Wednesday was delayed at least 24 hours, to no earlier than 3:29:43 p.m. EDT Thursday, to give engineers more time to troubleshoot an apparent electrical glitch in circuitry associated with a backup main engine computer.

STS-133 Mission Status Center

Think Outside the Circle!

2010-11-01T13:12:00.000-04:00

http://spacecoalition.com/benefits-of-space/think-outside-the-circle

I want the Shuttle Adventure!!!!

2010-10-20T22:13:00.005-04:00

I want the Lego Shuttle Adventure (10213)! One of the guys at work had this at his desk today and I was completely jealous. The design is awesome and they nailed little details I can appreciate after working on the shuttle program.

Filming of Transformers 3 at Kennedy Space Center

2010-10-12T20:32:00.006-04:00

Well now I am just going to HAVE to watch Transformers 3 to see what at Kennedy Space Center made it into the movie. Scenes were shot at Pad 39A last week. They even had the Rotating Service Structure (RSS) retracted to maybe even give some credit to Discovery!

But then they went off to shoot in Washington D.C and a non-scripted crash of Bumblebee occurred. Whoops! I'm sure they have "extras" of Bumblebee, right?!? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkq6fi2U2zE&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Transformers 3 is set to release next summer on June 11th.

Discovery Rolling Out to the Pad (STS-133)

2010-09-23T10:10:00.000-04:00

Vote for Your Favorite Wake Up Song!!!

2010-09-07T22:28:00.002-04:00

The wakeup song has been a part of the space program since the days of the Apollo missions, and now NASA is giving you two chances to be a part of this history! NASA needs your help selecting wakeup songs to be played during the final missions of the Space Shuttle Program! You can either vote from their Top 40 List or submit your own original work!

Visit: https://songcontest.nasa.gov/home.aspx

This Week in Space

2010-09-07T22:15:00.002-04:00

This Week In Space

2010-08-16T07:45:00.002-04:00

Robotnaut 2!!!

2010-08-13T08:53:00.003-04:00

Rosie from the Jetson's comes true! Just kidding! NASA and GE have been working on jointly on this robot, Robonaut 2 or R2, which consists of a white-suited torso with two arms, two five-fingered hands and a gold head. The robot's role in space initially will be to perform tasks serving as an "astronaut's assistant" from a fixed position inside the U.S. Destiny lab. Eventually, upgrades could have this robot performing spacewalks!

R2 has a very human-like design for the purpose of being able to use human tools as well. The robot will fly on Discovery's 11-day mission's scheduled for November 1, 2010 at 4:40pm.

Need some ideas!!!

2010-07-25T20:21:00.002-04:00

I need your ideas! I'm starting to get active with the Society of Women Engineers here in Boston and I've volunteered to keep an outreach event going where we educate kids about engineering through a FUN day filled with a variety of hands-on workshops.

I need your help with any good experiments or activities kids would be able to accomplish within an hour, BUT still incorporate learning about different engineering disciplines. We're hoping to have them complete about 6-7 different workshops for the day. I have some ideas (bottle rocket launching, music box kit, etc.)and I've looked around online, but does anyone have some good ones they really like out there?!?! If you have recommendations, it doesn't matter what age group/grade. We'd like to host an event for 3-6 and 7-12 graders. I'm open to all suggestions! THANKS!

Get your face in space!!!!

2010-06-13T22:23:00.003-04:00

For as rainy and gloomy as it was this weekend in Boston, I turned out to have a pretty nice weekend!!! It amazes me how many events happened around the city here. This weekend I ventured out to the 2010 Health and Fitness Expo (got to meet Mario Lopez!) and explored the city a little more. I also bought a pair of rain boots and a good rain shell that I’ve definitely needed to not let the rain hamper my plans. I also found an awesome gym near my house that I've signed up with. There is a boxing class that is taught by a Women's Boxing Olympic coach and I've started really enjoying the sport and learning the correct techniques.

With two shuttle launches left (STS-133 in September and STS-134 in November), you can fly your face in space. Visit http://faceinspace.nasa.gov/index.aspx for details. I just submitted mine to fly on the last mission for STS-134.

JAXA’s Asteroid Explorer "HAYABUSA" successfully separated its capsule and re-entered the atmosphere to complete its mission. For about seven years since its launch in May 2003, the HAYABUSA successfully completed a great achievement by landing on the asteroid "ITOKAWA," gathering rocks and returning them to Earth.

Read the first diary post from ESA’s Mars500!! http://www.esa.int/esaMI/Mars500/SEMUXB5XT9G_0.html

This Week in Space

2010-06-13T21:48:00.001-04:00

This Week in Space

2010-06-04T21:07:00.006-04:00

Enough of the blog break!

2010-06-04T21:07:00.005-04:00

It's been a while since I've blogged. A LONG WHILE! I should be improving that now that I've settled in and have my after-work activities balanced out.

No matter where you are in your career, transitioning to a new job and living in a new area is always an adjustment challenge. Work is getting better and I'm making progress in my research and learning new tools. I'm very glad I took this position and am amazed at the expertise of the MIT Lincoln Laboratory.

I still have been keeping up with the space world. It saddened me to watch (or in my case stream on-line) the launch and landing of Atlantis especially when that was the vehicle I worked on the most out at Kennedy Space Center.

Congrats to SpaceX for a successful launch today!!! I think this is a start to really take out space program in a new direction. SpaceX previously agreed with NASA to fly three demo flights of the Dragon capsule under the Commercial Orbital Transportation Services program. Upon successful test flights, SpaceX would then be delivering equipment to the space station.

I've also been keeping track of a friend of mine, Diego. He's currently participating in an 500-day ESA Mars Simulation (Mars500). They're in a facility in Moscow, completely isolated from the world. There were various experiments and training since last year and now they are currently in the 'fly to Mars' phase over the next 250 days, 'land and explore' for 40 days and then 'return to Earth' in 230 days. The crew hatch will remained closed until November next year!! So exciting to watch Diego go through this. You can follow Diego on twitter during the Mars500 http://twitter.com/diegou

That's it for now...I'll be keeping up with my blog now. :)

This Week In Space

2010-05-01T17:44:00.000-04:00

Steven Hawking warns us about aliens, the military launches a space shuttle, NASA helps keep an eye on oil slick off Louisiana, and the countdowns are on for Atlantis' final scheduled flight and Falcon 9's inaugural flight.

Going into my 2nd work week!

2010-04-19T21:51:00.003-04:00

I survived my first week of work!! This past week was an adjustment week as I tested out different routes to dodge traffic, what my start time would be, and getting myself situated in the office. Everyone at work has been welcoming and I've already been assigned my first project that I know I will enjoy working on. There is some training I need to do to catch up, but overall I had a great first week.

Today I took part in Patriots' Day, commemorating the anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Starting at 5:30am they had a re-enactment of these first battles of the American Revolution at Lexington Green (Lexington, MA.) and then later at the Old North Bridge in (Concord, MA). I walked the entire battle road and then enjoyed the parade they had later in the afternoon. Now to get ready for my "Monday" tomorrow.

As for Discovery still orbiting in space, I'll be streaming the next landing attempt. Also due to weather, Atlantis has been rescheduled to roll out tomorrow to pad 39A! :)

Back To Work Tomorrow!!!

2010-04-11T21:52:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow will be my first day of work with my new position at the MIT Lincoln Laboratory. I have to say that prior to the move the process went real smooth, but once I got here I have just been faced with many little challenges. Luckily, as of today, everything is now in order and I am settled in my apartment. I'm very excited and anxious about starting this new position. I made a big change in my life right now it'll be great to see how this chapter unfolds.

I've been following the STS-131 mission online. I definitely missed being out in Houston with the team for support. The team has been doing a fantastic job (despite the KU band failure) assessing the items of interest. A late mission inspection will still occur which is a final scan of the wing leading edge. Landing is scheduled for April 19!!!

This Week in Space

2010-04-11T21:50:00.001-04:00

Discovery takes its next-to-last flight, Obama prepares to face the music on the Space Coast, SpaceX outlooks a May launch for Falcon 9, the price goes up for a seat on a Soyuz, space fans the world over gear up for Yuri's Night, auroras on Saturn, WISE images the "hidden galaxy", Spitzer spies Orion, Phoenix is almost certainly dead, and Buzz gets the boot.

This Week In Space

2010-03-30T12:02:00.001-04:00

"VSS Enterprise" takes flight and "space for the rest of us" moves a step forward, the Martian Rite of Spring commences while the folks at JPL prep a "rover on steroids" for departure for the Red Planet, the Wizard Nebula is ready for its close-up, Roller Derby on Saturn's rings, Discovery is "go" for launch, orbital Olympics, the crew of STS-134 prepares to go where no one has gone before, and Buzz "Twinkle-Toes" Aldrin wows the judges on "Dancing with the Stars" - or (ahem!) not.

This Week in Space

2010-03-22T14:35:00.000-04:00

Astronomers get WISE to a mysterious class of space rocks lurking dangerously near Earth and only visible in the infrared, workers at the Kennedy Space Center race to troubleshoot a valve problem with Discovery in hopes of keeping her on track for launch, a string of comets take a death dive, Jupiter's Great Red Spot gets the thermal imaging treatment, new views of the moons of Mars and Saturn, rover tracks on the moon, Bob Bigelow puts out the all-call for astronauts, the shuttle Enterprise may be old but she's apparently still up for a piggyback ride, shrimp on ice, and a helicopter crash only a dummy could survive.

It's official, I'm moving to Boston!

2010-03-16T20:49:00.003-04:00

Next week, I will be leaving my position with Boeing and trek to Boston to work for the MIT Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, Ma.

Earlier today I read my very first blog post and how I felt my first week here at Kennedy Space Center has not changed to this day. I will definitely miss everyone I've worked with, the awesome launches, and the space program! However, this does not mean I am giving up on my dream in becoming an astronaut. The blog will continue! :)

I still plan on being very active in the community, stay a space advocate, and work towards a PhD. Right now, the direction of our space program is a little up in the air, but I know we'll get back on track. I'm also excited that I found a nearby judo club I am going to join so I can continue the sport.

This endeavor will be exciting and I will be supporting the Engineering Analysis group on various projects. Next week is my last week, but I will definitely be blogging during the move process! Thanks to all for the support up to this point. It really means a lot to me!!

Discovery has a leak!

2010-03-15T14:54:00.001-04:00

While attempting to load propellant Friday night, a leak was detected in Discovery's RCS (Reaction Control System) Helium Isolation Value – on the right-hand OMS (Orbital Maneuvering System) fuel system. Further testing and troubleshooting steps are being planned at the launch pad to examine two helium system regulators, which maintain pressure to the fuel tank and are further down the plumbing from the isolation valves.

If the regulators are functioning correctly, which will be tested later this week when the necessary equipment is ready, engineers could determine Discovery can safely fly 'as-is' despite the isolation valve problem.

If a repair or replacement to the valve is required, we would not be able to access it out at the pad...which means...rolling the shuttle back to the Vehicle Assembly Building, demating Discovery from its external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters, then towing Discovery to the Orbiter Processing Facility....AND removing the OMS pod.

Even with the planned testing, the April 5 launch date still stands. It's what comes out of these test results that will determine if we need to roll back the shuttle which would cause a delay.

Congrats, SpaceX!

2010-03-14T21:25:00.002-04:00

SpaceX successfully fired the Falcon 9 rocket's nine Merlin engines for 3.5 seconds, completing a key preflight test before the privately-developed booster is cleared for launch in April.

Ground test was one of the final steps before launch of the Falcon 9, which is scheduled for no earlier than April 12. The static fire verified all of the launch pad's ground systems are ready to support the mission. Between now and launch, engineers will install the rocket's flight termination system charges that would destroy the vehicle if it flew off course and threatened the public.

NASA awarded SpaceX a $1.6 billion contract to fly 12 operational Falcon 9 and Dragon missions to the International Space Station beginning in 2011.

SpaceX plans a flight of the Dragon in July, followed by a rendezvous demonstration with the space station in November. But those schedules hinge on a timely and successful Falcon 9 test flight in April.

This Week in Space

2010-03-14T03:17:00.001-04:00

"IMAX: Hubble 3D" debuts at the Air and Space Museum...we give it the "red carpet" treatment - checking out the movie, checking in with the astronaut stars, listening to the star who voiced it over - Leonardo DiCaprio, and weighing in with the director and the NASA brass about the wow-factor of the IMAX experience. Also: a Falcon 9 "hot fire" disappoints, the shuttle program manager says "no problem" for shuttle to keep flying, and safely -- it's only a question of money -- and Obama gets ready to speak up for his controversial new plan for NASA...and braces for what promises to be a firestorm of protest at planned April 15 conference on the future of America's space program.

Tour the International Space Station

2010-03-08T22:21:00.001-05:00

Currently at KSC.....

2010-03-08T21:11:00.007-05:00

Discovery is currently at Launch Pad 39A. Launch of STS-131 is targeted for April 5, 2010 at 6:27 a.m. This past week, the STS-131 astronaut crew went through a mock countdown/dress rehearsal to prepare themselves for their actual launch date operations.

The external tank that will be used for STS-132 (Shuttle Atlantis - targeted launch on May 14, 2010) arrived last week and was transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building.

You may have heard some talk effecting Endeavour's planned July launch. An issue related to the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer-02 payload testing is threatening a delay to STS-134’s slot in the manifest, to the point it may slip behind STS-133, or even as far as 2011 in a worst case scenario. However, no decision will be made on the schedule until after additional testing results and the launch of STS-131 in April. Read more..here.

The next step in ground testing SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket will be a hotfire of the first stage engines. The launch team will ignite the nine Merlin 1C engines for three-and-a-half seconds during the test. Hot fire is targeted for late morning or early afternoon, tomorrow.

Lift-off of the rocket could occur late this month, but more likely early April.

This Week In Space

2010-03-08T21:04:00.000-05:00

Florida's Space Coast braces for layoffs, Buzz Aldrin muses on the next steps for NASA and his upcoming stint on "Dancing with the Stars," plus other headlines from This Week In Space.

Space Coast - Society of Women Engineers Awards Banquet

2010-02-24T20:02:00.005-05:00

Yesterday I attended the Space Coast's Society of Women Engineers Awards Banquet. I was nominated for the Distinguish New Woman Engineer award. We had guest speaker Dr. Cammy R. Abernathy (Dean, College of Engineering of University of Florida and Professor of Materials Science and Engineering) who gave a great insight about the economic shift in society that has effected the engineering disciplines within universities and industry.

I was selected to receive the award in the category I was nominated for. It was a great honor accepting this award last night and being surrounded by so many women who embrace leadership and give back to their community. I have had great support and encouragement from my mentors who have helped shape me professionally throughout my career. One thing I have learned for sure is that you can never have too many mentors. I learn a variety of qualities from the different people I look up to.

The ceremony was fantastic and I was amazed in the technical leadership of all the nominees. Below are the names of all the honorees that were recognized last night.

Nominees for Space Coast Distinguished New Woman Engineer of the Year
Mrs. Susie Allen-Sierpinski
Ms. Arianna Aron
Ms. Jessica Beahn
Lt. Sofia Calica
Ms. Patricia Del Rio
Mrs. Megan Jaunich
Ms. Brigette Linville-Padgett
Ms. Melissa Mierzwa
Ms. Erin Mulholland
Mrs. Rye Myers
Ms. Tzvetelina Petrova
Ms. Tamalyn Resnick
Ms. Amanda Sandberg
Ms. Damaris Sarria - recipient
Ms. Nicole Titus
Ms. Jessica Towslee
Ms. Sarah Walden

Nominees for Space Coast Technical Achievement Award
Capt. Shana Figueroa
Ms. Helen Garcia
Ms. Catherine Kammerer - recipient
Ms. Barbara Kerschner
Ms. Catheryn Logan
Ms. Teresa Sauter
Mrs. Carlyn Smith
Mrs. Marcella Solomon

Nominees for Space Coast Outstanding Woman Engineer of the Year Award
Ms. Beta Alfonso
Capt. Meredith Beg
Ms. Maria Groh-Hammond
Mrs. Kimberly Guodace
Mrs. Janice Jingle
Ms. Catherine Kammerer
Ms. Barbara Kerschner
Ms. Kathy McLaughlin
Mrs. Elaine Seiler
Mrs. Consuela Smith - recipient
Ms. Nancy Szpara
Ms. Denise Thaller

Endeavour is back, and Discovery is in the VAB

2010-02-22T19:21:00.004-05:00

What a day! Preps continue in getting Endeavour back to processing for its next flight (STS-134, November 2010)....and Discovery rolled over to the VAB!!!

This Week in Space

2010-02-21T18:35:00.000-05:00

The International Space Station gets a room with a view like no other - many wish NASA had as clear a view of what is next in space. "This Week in Space" talks to the exiled president of the "Constellation Nation" – former NASA boss Mike Griffin – who equates the Obama decision to Richard Nixon's cancellation of Apollo – only worse. And we hear from a leading space entrepreneur – Eric Anderson of Space Adventures - who says the Obama plan is "brilliant... a masterstroke of U.S. space policy."

Endeavour to land at KSC today.....maybe....

2010-02-21T18:31:00.003-05:00

Although the skies don't look too bad right now at the Kennedy Space Center, the weather forecast for landing time continues to call for low cloud ceilings and showers in the area.

A final decision whether to land on time will come around 9 p.m., leading to ignition of Endeavour's braking rockets at 9:14:52 p.m. for 2 minutes and 38 seconds to start the trek home. The shuttle would hit the upper atmosphere at 9:49 p.m.

Landing on Runway 15 at the Kennedy Space Center is scheduled for 10:20:37 p.m. EST.

If the weather or a problem forces entry flight director Norm Knight to scrub the day's first re-entry opportunity and keep Endeavour in space, there is a backup landing option available one orbit later. That would begin with a deorbit engine firing at 10:50:52 p.m. and a touchdown in Florida at 11:55:50 p.m. EST.

NASA is calling up support from the alternate landing site at Edwards Air Force Base in the Mojave Desert of California. So if the weather prevents a landing in Florida, the spacecraft could be diverted there. The first deorbit opportunity will be 12:20:31 a.m. EST and landing on the temporary Runway 22R at 1:25:41 a.m. EST. A second shot into Edwards would come an orbit later.

However, weather forecasters are calling for the chance of low clouds and rain showers at both landing sites tonight. :(

----------------------

UPDATE: GO FOR THE DEORBIT BURN! Weather conditions at the Kennedy Space Center are going to cooperate for the space shuttle landing this evening, allowing entry flight director Norm Knight in Mission Control to give final approval for Endeavour to perform the deorbit burn at 9:14:47 p.m. EST that will commit the spacecraft for the journey back to Earth.

Touchdown in Florida on Runway 15 is set for 10:20:32 p.m. EST

Some Awesome Shots from STS-130

2010-02-19T10:06:00.004-05:00

Orbiter Updates :)

2010-02-19T10:00:00.001-05:00

Lots happening here in the space world. Endeavour is scheduled to return to KSC on Sunday night at 10:25 EST. I haven’t seen a definite weather briefing, but low ceiling clouds may pose a threat to landing at KSC. The weather at Edwards Air Force base in CA. is not favorable on Sunday, but great for Monday. So…we’ll see as it gets closer to the de-orbit burn on Sunday. The hatch closure will occur today at 2:49pm and Endeavour will undock from the ISS at 7:58pm.

Discovery’s launch date has changed to April 5th at 6:27am! Roll over from the OPF will occur on Monday (weather permitting). There will be a 10 day window for this launch.

We’re busily processing Atlantis for its next launch as well. It will be rolling out of the OPF to the VAB on April 8th, rolling out to the launch pad on April 20th, and with a targeted launch date of May 14th.

STS-130: Flight Day 4

2010-02-11T11:29:00.004-05:00

We've completed the inspection of the orbiter's imagery and found 2 areas of interest. The first issue we found was a loose ceramic insert around a fastener securing a carrier plate around one of the shuttle's cockpit windows. The fastener is protruding a bit above the surface of the window frame, as shown above. Currently, we're assessing the effects of this insert as debris transport if it were to loosen completely during reentry.

Another area of interest is a repaired tile on the upper surface of the crew module. The repair appears to have degraded and one corner of the tile is slightly protruding higher than the rest of the tile.

Neither issue appears to be a serious threat, but we do need to complete the analysis from a debris transport view and present it to the Mission Management Team.

Overall, Endeavour's surfaces looked very clean. We didn't have to log in any tile damages as none were out of criteria. The orbiter is very clean from a thermal protection standpoint. :)

STS-130: Flight Day 3

2010-02-09T19:10:00.005-05:00

Endeavour will dock with the International Space Station at 12:06 am EST.

Today the Orbiter Boom Sensor System (OBSS) was used in inspecting Endeavour's heat shield. The initial inspection sweeps using the boom have been completed by the crew. Here at Johnson Space Center, we're reviewing the data to be able to declare the heat shield safe for re-entry.

Before docking with the International Space Station, high resolution photos will be taken of the orbiter by the ISS crew and the team I'm on will begin to inspect the imagery. I'm on a overnight shift so I'm just going into work now!

Successful Launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour (STS-130)!!!

2010-02-08T08:22:00.006-05:00

Such a beautiful launch early this morning at 4:14 a.m. EST!!! As the crew of space Shuttle Endeavour is on their way to the International Space Station, I'm on my way to Houston for imagery inspection operations for the Thermal Protection System of the orbiter. Watching a launch feels so rewarding. :)

Weather conditions postpone Endeavour launch 24 hours

2010-02-07T05:11:00.001-05:00

24-hr SCRUB!!! Low clouds over Kennedy Space Center prevented space shuttle Endeavour from launching today. Another try will come Monday at 4:14 a.m. EST.

STS-130 Launch Sunday!

2010-02-04T11:20:00.002-05:00

The countdown has officially started for Sunday’s STS-130 launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour. Sunday’s (Feb. 7th) launch is scheduled for 4:39 a.m. EST and there is a 70% favorable weather conditions for lift off!!!!

So where is our Space Program headed?

2010-02-04T11:17:00.002-05:00

Earlier this week, President Obama stated NASA’s proposed budget for the fiscal year. Starting Oct. 1 the budget seeks to cancel the current Constellation program intended to send astronauts into orbit and to the Moon. The other major change in Obama's space policy calls for $6 billion to be spent to help private companies develop rockets and crew capsules to carry astronauts to the ISS.

NASA's work on the Constellation Program, including the Ares 1 and Ares V and Orion, will continue this year while Congress examines the proposed changes. We’re all looking very forward to the thorough evaluation that will be performed by Congress of the budgetary framework President Obama has proposed to ensure NASA can sustain a robust and balanced space program of human spaceflight, climate, science, robotics and aeronautics.

So what’s new with me? Well since I was hired under the Space Shuttle Program contract, the retirement of the shuttle fleet does effect me. My plan? To find another position that will advance my career. Our option here is to continue with our position until the end of the program (or until layoffs effect us) or….there may be other opportunities that may come to KSC that we could apply for.

There is also uncertainty over the future of the astronaut corps. Space agency officials declined Tuesday to confirm if NASA's astronaut corps would continue after the space shuttle retires within the year. I have been asked by many how this effects me and if I will continue to aspire to become an astronaut. Of course I will still apply to become an astronaut if the opportunity is there! At the moment I am focusing on my current job responsibilities, looking for what direction I want to take my career next, and continue in advancing my education. I’ve been very involved with volunteering my time to encourage math, science, and technology to students through the Society of Women Engineers and through some school visits. I fully intend to continue being very active in the community wherever my next venture takes me!

Merion Elementary School Visit

2010-01-15T14:29:00.011-05:00

Today I visited Merion Elementary School in Merion Station, PA. I have to say I had the biggest grin on my face as soon as I walked into the building. On my way to the front office I saw this sign the kids had made to welcome me!

All throughout the school halls there were more signs and in the auditorium as well. Their art work was heartwarming and greatly appreciated! I gave a special presentation to Mrs. Glackman's brilliant 3rd grade class and then to the rest of the elementary school in the auditorium.

The presentations went great and all the kids were engaged! I tried to answer as many questions as possible, but time was limited. I do encourage the parents or students to post their questions as comments and I'll make sure to answer them! I enjoyed today and I know the students did as well. Now I have some wonderful thank you cards to read through from Mrs. Glackman's class! Thanks everyone!!!

Space Shuttle Program Commemorative Patch

2010-01-14T11:13:00.005-05:00

NASA has revealed the 15 patch designs that will compete to become the agency's official commemorative emblem for the end of its space shuttle program later this year. A panel of NASA judges will select the winning artwork to be flown on STS-132, the final flight of space shuttle Atlantis as currently scheduled for launch in May. Before they make their selection though, NASA is giving employees a chance to vote for their favorite.

Collectspace.com is hosting their own voting for the top 15! To cast your vote for your favorite patch, Click Here

85 designs were received in the Space Shuttle Program Commemorative Patch Contest from a wide variety of individuals, including astronauts and former and current civil servants and contractors.

The winning design will be flown on an upcoming shuttle mission, and the winner will be presented with their flown artwork as an award. Click here for the 85 entries that were submitted. The top 15 entries can be viewed here.

Oak Park Elementary School Visit

2010-01-07T11:49:00.006-05:00

Today I visited Oak Park Elementary in Titusville, FL. I gave the pre-K class a presentation about the space shuttle and launch preparation processing. They enjoyed the presentation very much and got to handle some blankets and tiles. There favorite part of the presentation was watching a video from the solid rocket booster from launch to splashdown. At the end of my visit they were officially shuttle experts as I stuck a NASA sticker on them. We had a great morning!

Endeavour has begun to roll out to pad 39A!

2010-01-06T05:18:00.003-05:00

The official start time for the rollout was clocked at 4:13 a.m. EST. It's very dark out and cold..34 degrees! More photos to come as it gets lighter out.

Happy 2010!!!

2010-01-05T17:44:00.003-05:00

Well let's start off 2010 right! I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday and I wish you all a successful and healthy 2010. I'm every excited about 2010 because it will be bringing many changes into my life. Hopefully before next launch we should be hearing what route our human spaceflight plans will take and we are all very anxious.

Endeavour will begin to roll out to pad A at 4:00am tomorrow! I have my camera ready since I'll be into work shortly after first motion. Launch is still targeted for February 7th at 4:39am.

Today, the external tank that will be used for STS-131 (Discovery) was towed into the Vehicle Assembly Building today. The next launch is targeted for March 18th, 2010.

Before we go on vacation....

2009-12-21T08:20:00.005-05:00

Is everyone ready for this holiday season?

Here at KSC we are! The holiday vacation starts on Thursday and goes through January 3rd. During this time no work will be performed on the orbiters as we’ll all be on vacation (woo hoo!). For half of this week,

Starting with Endeavour….the vehicle is in the VAB and is just awaiting transfer to launch pad 39A which will occur on January 6th, 2010. A new launch date of February 7th, 2010 was approved last week.

Tranquility is a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the space station's life support systems. The cool thing I LOVE about Tranquility is that attached to one end of the node is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top. The cupola resembles a circular bay window and will provide a vastly improved view of the station's exterior. The multi-directional view will allow the crew to monitor spacewalks and docking operations, as well as provide a spectacular view of Earth and other celestial objects. The module was built in Turin, Italy, by Thales Alenia Space for the European Space Agency. Here’s the cupola (covered for protection) attached to Tranquility and a picture of it before it was attached to the node.

Discovery and Atlantis are undergoing normal processing, but are also preparing for powering down during this holiday season.

As for me, last week I took my final in the combustion class I've been taking so now I can enjoy my time off of work. I also have about 3 talks to give to schools in January that I am looking forward to!

NASA 2009-2010 Moon Work Design Contest

2009-12-04T10:15:00.001-05:00

Listen up college students!!!

NASA has a student design challenge to design tools and instrumentation for human and robotic exploration that will help astronauts perform tasks on the Moon. Students are free to select a task from the following list or propose one of their own:

Navigation in the darkness around the Moon's south pole

Power supplies for rovers in the dark

Sample retrieval and on-site analysis

Radiation detection and avoidance

Communication with lunar outpost, with orbiters, and with Earth

Video capture of sorties for transmission back to Earth

Astronaut recovery and transport back to outpost

Lunar regolith mitigation strategies for rover and space suits

Detect and retrieve water ice for use on the rover

Interested students should submit a letter of intent to enter the contest by Dec. 15. Final entries for the Moon Work challenge are due May 15, 2010. All entries must be from students at U.S. colleges or universities. Although non-citizens may be part of a team, only U.S. citizens may win NASA internships or travel awards.

Check out the website for all the guidelines at: http://moonwork.larc.nasa.gov

This week at KSC

2009-12-02T09:08:00.006-05:00

Supporting Atlantis out in Houston went very smoothly and it was a successful 11-day mission with a beautiful landing at Kennedy Space Center. Now Atlantis is back in the Orbiter Processing Facility preparing for its next mission, STS-132.

Next in line for flight is Endeavour with a roll over to the Vehicle Assembly Building scheduled for December 12. Roll out to the launch pad is scheduled for January 6th, 2010 with a targeted launch date of February 6th, 2010.

....AND....work continues on the construction of the new Mobile Launch Platform that will serve as the base to launch the Ares I rockets for the Constellation Program. When completed, the tower will be approximately 345 feet tall and have multiple platforms for personnel access.

Happy Thanksgiving and Atlantis to Return Tomorrow!

2009-11-26T12:57:00.002-05:00

Yesterday's inspections of Atlantis' wing leading edges and nose cap have cleared the heatshield for re-entry. The astronauts are working through a busy Thanksgiving in space testing the shuttle's re-entry systems and packing up for landing tomorrow Kennedy Space Center.

View the STS-129 crew's Thanksgiving greeting from space!

Thermal Protection System (TPS) cleared for reentry!

2009-11-19T11:00:00.001-05:00

The review of all the imagery was completed last night! There were 4 areas of interest for Atlantis, but all have been declared acceptable for entry. We're assembling our charts that will be presented to the Orbiter Project Office!

Rendezvous Pitch Maneuver complete!

2009-11-18T11:06:00.003-05:00

....and now we wait for the photos to be downlinked to us by the astronauts!

Atlantis to begin Rendezvous Pitch Maneuver (RPM) soon

2009-11-18T10:29:00.004-05:00

We will begin to get imagery downlinked from the International Space Station (ISS) soon. Atlantis will perform the rendezvous pitch maneuver (RPM) in about 25 minutes!!

Atlantis launches!!!!!

2009-11-17T07:42:00.002-05:00

Liftoff of Space Shuttle Atlantis occurred yesterday at 2:28 p.m. It was a perfect launch and the weather definitely played in our favor. I leave for Houston today to assist in the review of the imagery that will be downlinked from the ISS of Atlantis. Tomorrow morning we will begin to get the imagery and start inspecting for any critical damages.

I have had a pretty crazy couple of weeks! I've been visiting various schools for a talk on the thermal protection system and I took a major exam yesterday on the combustion course I am taking. After taking that exam, I'm am just a lot more relieved and have a tiny bit more time for myself. :)

Well....off to do my last minute packing so I can catch my flight this morning!!! More updates to come during my week at Johnson Space Center.

Ares I-X launches!!!!!

2009-10-28T12:16:00.003-04:00

Successful launch of Ares I-X!!!!!!!

NASA launch commentator George Diller says there will be a press conference at 1:30 p.m. EDT to confirm what occurred with parachute deployment. There is still a lack of formal information on recovery.

Ares I-X launch attempt!

2009-10-27T08:08:00.011-04:00

Ares I-X is scheduled to launch today! It has been rescheduled to 11:30am!!

Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ 13K

2009-10-25T02:07:00.003-04:00

Last night I ran the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ 13K. It was an 8.1 mile nighttime road race that ended at the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ attraction at Disney's Hollywood Studios™. The course took the runners through the Disney's Wide World of Sports® Complex and then through Disney's Hollywood Studios™. It started at 10:30pm and after the run there was a post-race celebration where we had access to some of the attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios™ until 2am!!

Review of U.S. Human Spaceflight Plans

2009-10-22T13:54:00.003-04:00

Since June 2009, The Augustine Committee has been reviewing the U.S. plans for human spaceflight to offer possible alternatives. In doing so, it assessed the programs within the current human spaceflight portfolio; considered capabilities and technologies a future program might require; and considered the roles of commercial industry and our international partners in this enterprise. From these deliberations, the Committee developed five integrated alternatives for the U.S. human spaceflight program, including an executable version of the current program. The considerations and the five alternatives are summarized in the following report.

Review of U.S. Human Spaceflight Plans Report

Website: http://www.nasa.gov/offices/hsf

Ares I-X Rolls Out to Launch Pad 39B

2009-10-20T12:24:00.006-04:00

Today, the 327-foot-tall Ares I-X rocket, secured to a mobile launcher platform, was transferred out to Launch Pad 39B. The test rocket left the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at 1:39 a.m. EDT on its 4.2-mile trek to the pad and was secured on the launch pad’s pedestals at 9:17 a.m EDT.

Various modifications have been made to transform the launch pad from supporting space shuttle to Ares rocket launches. The modifications have included removal of unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system.

The Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 27 at 8:00 am EDT.

Tour de KSC! 23 miles COMPLETE!

2009-10-18T19:11:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, NASA held a Tour de KSC event for employees. It was a cycling event to promote cancer awareness and the benefits of exercise and good health. There were three different tours of different lengths (12 miles, 23 miles and 37 miles) and I managed to complete the 23 mile tour which took us up the road passing the Vehicle Assembly Building and around the perimeter of launch pad B.

This was the first year NASA held the Tour de KSC and it looks like they are going to try to make this an annual event!

On my way to another building.....

2009-10-14T08:18:00.002-04:00

Space Shuttle Atlantis is making its way to the launch pad!

Ares I-X Test Launch - October 27th

2009-10-12T08:14:00.003-04:00

Ares I-X is the first test vehicle in the Ares I development program for future human spaceflight. On October 27th, the Ares I-X vehicle will be used for a suborbital test flight and will be similar in shape, weight and size to the planned configuration of later Ares I vehicles.

The Ares I-X flight profile will closely approximate the flight conditions that Ares I will experience through Mach 4.5, at an altitude of about 130,000 feet.

Provided the Ares I vehicle design is not cancelled after the options presented by the Augustine Review, it is currently NASA's launch vehicle of choice to carry the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle. On Monday morning, the Ares I-X vehicle will roll out to launch pad 39B.

Friday Fun Day Photo!!!

2009-10-09T14:32:00.003-04:00

How would you like that view out your window?!

Atlantis moves to the Vehicle Assembly Building

2009-10-07T08:39:00.006-04:00

Yesterday morning, Atlantis made its way over to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) from the Orbiter Processing Facility. Now that Atlantis is in the VAB, the next step is to lift the Orbiter over a transom and lower it where it will be attached to its external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters. Rollout to launch pad 39A of Space Shuttle Atlantis is planned for October 13.

Launch of Atlantis on its STS-129 mission is targeted for 4:04 p.m. EST on November 12.

Friday Fun Day Photo!!!

2009-10-02T13:48:00.001-04:00

...and yeah, this Buzz flew on the last mission! :)

Atlantis to Move to VAB Tuesday morning!

2009-10-02T09:29:00.003-04:00

Here's a shot of the Orbiter Transfer System (OTS) slowly moving in under Atlantis. The OTS will transport Atlantis to the Vehicle Assembly Building, which is scheduled for the morning of Tuesday Oct. 7!!!

STS-129's External Tank and Solid Rocket Booster Assembled!!

2009-09-26T16:50:00.002-04:00

Last week the External Tank that will be used for Atlantis’s next flight (STS-129), was assembled with the Solid Rocket Boosters stacked on the Mobile Launch Platform. STS-129 is targeted to launch Nov. 12th. Atlantis is still undergoing final closeout work before it can be transferred from its Orbiter Processing Facility to the Vehicle Assembly Building, which is targeted for the beginning of October.

What have I been up to? For the past two weeks, I was in training with our Vehicle Project Manager for Endeavour. It was really cool because I was able to be involved with the integration of the other systems with the Orbiter. It involved coming into work at 5am and understanding what was (or wasn’t) completed on 3rd shift, how it effected the schedule with other groups, testing that was planned, or issues that arose during certain work that was performed. Integration and communication is very key for us to stay on track for a launch. It was a great experience being involved in this and I learned so much more of what goes on outside of the Thermal Protection Systems group. In December, I will be get to do this again, but it will be when Endeavour is transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building and ready to be integrated in the vertical position with the External Tank and Solid Rocket Boosters.

Aside from that, I’ve been busily keeping up with the combustion course I’m taking and studying for my first exam coming up on Tuesday! I've also been training for some races in October that I'll be participating in.

Discovery lands at KSC!

2009-09-21T13:08:00.002-04:00

Discovery begins trip back to KSC tomorrow

2009-09-19T16:54:00.003-04:00

Discovery and the modified 747 will depart Edwards Air Force Base at 6:20 a.m. local time (9:20 a.m. EDT). The first refueling stop is planned at the Rick Husband International Airport in Amarillo, Texas. The second stop is for fuel is expected later in the day and NASA intends to have Discovery stop in Louisiana on Sunday for an overnight stay at Barksdale Air Force Base near Shreveport.

Arrival at Kennedy Space Center is targeted for 10:30 a.m. EDT on Monday.

Discovery to leave California Sunday!

2009-09-18T17:53:00.005-04:00

Discovery's cross-country piggyback ride atop a modified Boeing 747 jet from Edwards Air Force Base in California to Kennedy Space Center in Florida will begin Sunday. The exact time of departure has yet to be set because of changing weather conditions which will be assessed tomorrow. For the latest status about ferry flight, you can call 321-867-2525 or 661-276-2564.

Some blog readers asked how they could view a take off from Edwards AFB. The following was all I could find, so I hope this helps. Takeoff occurs from the main runway (Runway 04) toward the northeast, although a wind shift could mandate a change to Runway 22 to the southwest.

"The main base area of Edwards Air Force Base will not be open to the public for viewing of the shuttle's ferry flight takeoff. However, the 747-shuttle combination may be visible after a Runway 04 takeoff just north of the base in the Boron and North Edwards areas. The east lakeshore viewing site off Mercury Boulevard on the east side of Rogers Dry Lake will also be open to the public, although it is some distance from the takeoff point."

STS-127 Crew Visits KSC

2009-09-17T11:19:00.002-04:00

The STS-127 crew came to visit Kennedy Space Center and talk about their experience during their mission. They thanked everyone for their hard work on the hardware and processing that made the mission possible. Below is a photo I got to take with CSA Astronaut Julie Payette. She’s waaaayy cool. 

Discovery Lands!

2009-09-11T20:53:00.001-04:00

Discovery landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California. Touchdown occurred at 8:53 p.m. EDT. I'm glad the STS-128 crew made it home safely! To get Discovery back to Kennedy Space Center, a ferry flight atop a 747 carrier jet will occur in about a week. Given the heavy weight of the orbiter with the Leonardo module in its payload bay, four refueling stops and at least one overnight stop are planned.

Discovery to land in California tonight!

2009-09-11T16:19:00.001-04:00

We will not be landing at Kennedy Space Center today due to unfavorable weather conditions. Instead...we're California bound!! The deorbit burn is scheduled for 7:47:37 p.m. EDT, leading to touchdown at 8:53:34 p.m. EDT on Runway 22.

STS-128 Landing Attempts

2009-09-10T07:46:00.006-04:00

UPDATE: No Landing for today! Thanks a lot, rain clouds. Tomorrow's weather doesn't look so great either, but they'll still give it a try. The next landing opportunity for tomorrow will start with a deorbit burn at approximately 4:45 p.m. and touchdown at 5:48 p.m. EDT. There would be another chance to get into KSC on the next orbit too (6:21pm deorbit burn and 7:23pm landing), followed by two shots to the backup site at Edwards Air Force Base in California. At this point, the formal decision to call up Edwards' support on Friday has not yet been made.

UPDATE: Unstable weather conditions at the Kennedy Space Center have left no choice but to scrub today's first landing opportunity. Discovery will remain in space for one more orbit and target a 7:35 p.m. EDT deorbit burn and a nighttime touchdown at 8:40 p.m. EDT.

Discovery will attempt to land at Kennedy Space Center today. The first landing attempt is at 7:05 p.m. EDT and the second at 8:42 p.m. EDT. There are no technical issues with Discovery, but weather forecasters are predicting rain showers and possible thunderstorms in the area that could cause problems for a landing today or tomorrow. There is always Edwards Air Force Base in California as an option for landing, which shows acceptable weather for several days in a row. However, hopefully the weather will cooperate for a landing at Kennedy Space Center today!

...and today is someone's b-day!

2009-09-04T15:45:00.001-04:00

The poor cupcake can't hold 28 candles. :-)

Discovery's Thermal Protection System Cleared for Reentry

2009-09-04T10:37:00.004-04:00

Discovery's Thermal Protection System (TPS) is acceptable for reentry. On Wednesday, the group presented the Mission Management Team (MMT) with all of the completed analysis for the 13 damage sites that were detected. There are no concerns for TPS during entry!!

STS-128: Flight Day 4

2009-08-31T11:13:00.003-04:00

Around 4am today, we completed reviewing all of the imagery for any damages and anomalies. Analysts have already begun their assessments on some of the damages that we flagged. Today we will be putting charts together of the damages we found and presenting the analysis results. Overall, the vehicle was not in bad shape. We had some foam debris strikes that are being analyzed, but nothing unusual with the thermal protection system!

STS-128: Flight Day 3

2009-08-30T15:20:00.002-04:00

Discovery is headed to dock with the International Space Station this evening. Docking should occur around 9:04 p.m. EDT.

Yesterday the astronauts conducted an inch-by-inch inspection of the most critical sections of the shuttle's heat shield Saturday, examining the nose cap and wing leading edge panels with a laser scanner on the end of a 50-foot-boom attached to the Discovery's robot arm. The scans were downlinked and then inspected by our group.

Rendezvous operations will begin in about two hours. The 360-degree backflip maneuver in expected at 8:02 p.m. EDT. This is when the ISS astronauts take high resolution photos and downlink them to us here at Johnson Space Center so we can inspect the entire heat shield! We want to make sure there are no major damages outside of our criteria that could be a threat during the intense heating during reentry.

Off to work I go!!!

P.S. Today's is Discovery's BIRTHDAY!!! :) The first flight of Discovery was on August 30th, 1984. 25 years ago!

Discovery LAUNCHES!!!!

2009-08-29T00:47:00.003-04:00

Such a beautiful launch tonight!! I'm so glad weather was in our favor! Heading to bed now to hit the gym early in the morning before I head out to Houston to review Discovery's Thermal Protection System.

STS-128 launch postponed to Friday 8/28 @ 11:59pm EDT

2009-08-27T15:11:00.001-04:00

Launch of space shuttle Discovery is being delayed an additional 24 hours to give engineers more time to assess the fill and drain valve issue. The next launch opportunity would come at 11:59 p.m. EDT on Friday.

STS-128 launch postponed to Friday 8/28

2009-08-26T08:45:00.002-04:00

We're in a 48-hour launch delay while the fill-and-drain valve is undergoing troubleshooting and being reviewed. On Friday, there will be a 40% of weather prohibiting tanking and 30% of weather prohibiting launch. Launch is scheduled for 12:22 a.m. EDT.

STS-128 SCRUBBED, again

2009-08-25T18:20:00.001-04:00

SCRUB! Trouble with a liquid hydrogen fill and drain valve on the space shuttle Discovery has canceled tonight's scheduled launch. How long it will take to fix this problem and reschedule the liftoff is unknown at the moment.