Category: History

Post WWII Launch Complexes on Cape Canaveral

Ghosts from the future?

MichaelStephenWills12 Comments

Here is the fifth in a series of photographs centered on the early history of space flight on Cape Canaveral mostly taken during a tour organized by the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation. “Google” the foundation for details of future tours. Here we explore the sites of the first launches on the Cape, Launch Complexes 1, 2, 3, 4. (LC 1 – 4).

From Vengeance To Space

Our bus proceeded east on Lighthouse Road past Launch Complexes 21 and 22 in less than half a mile we were within the first sites of the United States Space age, sites with the lowest numbers, LC 1 – 4.

Click Any Image for a larger viewe

If, instead of distance, the bus traveled back in time 68 years to July, 1950 we would be witness to the first United States space launch of the two-stage “Bumper 8”, a former “V2” missile topped by a WAC Corporal that reached 248 miles above the earth, about where the International Space Station circles now.

July 1950 Bumper 8 Launch
By NASA/U.S. Army – NIX 66P-0631, GPN-2000-000613; http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/multimedia/display.cfm?IM_ID=385, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2892820

Almost certainly, the man who designed and directed the production of the Nazi V2, Werner vonBraun, was perched on the lighthouse a half-mile distant.

Cape Canaveral Lighthouse from Launch Complex 3

The Nazi “vengeance weapon 2”, the V2, a device so horrifying British authorities claimed the first V2 attacks to be “gas explosions” rather than admit a Nazi weapon descended without warning. Beginning September, 1944, over 3,000 V2’s landed on London, Antwerp and Liège resulting in an estimated 9,000 deaths, mostly civilians. 12,000 forced labor and concentration camp slaves died in the construction of the production facilities captured by the Soviet Union during the collapse of the Nazis. These victims, arms linked, will form a circle 15.9 miles in circumference around the Bumper 2 launch.

The 21,000 V2 victims, linked arm in arm, make a circle 15.9 miles in circumference.

von Braun and key V2 personnel surrendered to the Americans and, along with enough parts to construct 80 V2s, were taken to the United States. His direction of US missile development lead eventually to the enormous Saturn rocket that lifted three men to the moon, so good came from our bet on vonBraun and the V2.

Observation Bunker

In January, 2018, firmly in the present, our bus approached these now “deactivated” sites driving down Lighthouse Road. Confined to the bus, I used my Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III and the EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens to capture these scenes.

Looking across Launch Complexes 1 and 2 to Lighthouse Road and the tower. An observation bunker
Observation Bunker from Launch Complex 3, looking across Launch Complex 1.

I can almost see someone behind the glass, enjoying a blast of air-conditioned air, dry and cool.

Litter on and around Launch Complex 4

Missile Housing without Engine
Radar Parabola Fragment
Cement Blacked by Rocket Launch Blasts

Aerostat

From 1950 into the 1960’s LC 1-4 saw launches of cruise missiles, some of which were able to maneuver and land on the “skid strip” you can pick out on the “21,000 V2 Victims” image, above. A positive discovery from my research on wikipedia the weapon systems tested here were not fired in anger. Continued development in other places lead to production of generations of cruise missiles launched by Presidents Clinton and Bush against Afghanistan, Iraq and (??) other targets. What victim ghosts, arms linked in ever growing circles, are lurking in our future?

A building on LC 4 has the designation “Aerostat”, one of the last projects supported. I saw an aerostat in action in the early 2000’s over Fort Huachuca, Arizona near the border with Mexico. An aerostat is a flying craft that does not rely on moving air to achieve lift, balloons for example.

The Goodyear blimp is a memory from my childhood on Long Island, the Fort Huachuca aerostat was a smaller version, outfitted with advanced technology for monitoring the surrounding environment. “Google” aerostat mexican border to learn more about the current deployment.

Another view of the abandoned aerostat building on LC 4

With the development of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) the facilities of LC 1 – 4 became obsolete. ICBMs are a theme of the next installment of this series.

ClickMe for another post in this series, “Mercury 7 Pre-Launch Facilities.”

ClickMe for the first post in this series, “Cape Canaveral Lighthouse.”

Sources of information for this post: I used information from the Wikipedia site for the key words V-2, Launch Complex 1, Launch Complex 2, Launch Complex 3, Launch Complex 4. The Bumper 8 launch photograph caption includes a source citation.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved.

Cruise Missiles

Decoys and Cruise Control

MichaelStephenWills17 Comments

Here is the fourth in a series of photographs centered on the early history of space flight on Cape Canaveral mostly taken during a tour organized by the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation. Google the foundation for details of future tours. Here we explore the sites closests to the Lighthouse: Launch Complex 21 and 22.

“Vengance Weapons” re-purposed

Vergeltungswaffe 1 (Vengance Weapon 1 AKA V-1), produced at Peenemünde on the Baltic Sea was first used against Great Britan by Germany one week after the D-day landings. 8,025 of these flying bombs, the first cruise missles, caused the death of 22,892 people, mostly civilians. The first cruise missles for the USA were developed less than 1,000 feet away from the lighthouse. After touring the lighthouse we boarded the bus to visit these sites, Launch Complex 21 and 22.

Click Any Image for a larger viewe
Launch Complex 21 and 22 are marked with a labled “pin” on this image from Google Earth.

Nature abounds in Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. This ibis hunted near the lighthouse on our way to Launch Complexes 21,22.

We passed close to the blockhouse first viewed in my post, “Lighthouse and Rockets,” and I captured this detail of the long abandoned structure. The last test launch of a Mace missle was June, 1960.

This wreckage photograph was part of my,“Lighthouse and Rockets” post. It was taken from a lighthouse portal. It is a type of cruise missle, although I cannot identify the exact type, comparing the engine, on the right, with available photographs of the “Bull Goose” and “Mace” missles developed here.

Bull Goose and Mace

Rail launched, as was the German V-1, the missles developed here were called “Bull Goose” and “Mace.” Bull Goose was a delta winged craft intended as a decoy, to appear on radar as a strategic bomber during a nuclear attack. At that time, the rails were in the open. The building here was a revampment of the site for development of the Mace. The other side of this structure is open, the launch rail pointed up from the rear. There are two launch rails, numbered 1 and 2. The building placard is “05961,” the numeral “1” designates site 1. The use of numbers of designate a site is unusual. Letters are used elsewhere on Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center.

The powerful rocket exhause was directed though these pipes. Site 1 is on the right.

Guidance or “Cruise Control”

Navigation is a crucial requirement for cruise missles. The Bull Goose used a gyroscope with no reference to surroundings. The guidance system held the launch bearings, a successful flight was completed within 115 nautical miles of the target.

If deployed, the plan was for thousands of these missles to launch 1 hour before the attack craft set out and 1 hour after. The missles were not armed, but would descend in the thousands around the targets. Similar to what the Germans did to civilians in England.

After three years and 136.5 million dollars the Bull Goose was cancelled because it could not simulate either the B-47 Stratojet or B-52 Stratofortress nuclear bomb delivery aircraft. Not a single decoy was fired in anger.

The building sign “05912” identifies this exhaust tube as being launch site 2.

The Mace, for which this building was created, used a guidance ATRAN (Automatic Terrain Recognition And Navigation, a radar map-matching system). The map was produced on a 35 mm film strip carried on the missle, the live radar returns were “matched” against the film with course correction made for differences. The Mace was of limited usefulness due to the lack of radar maps for target areas within the Soviet Union. The Mace was deployed to Germany and South Korea until phase out in 1969.

ClickMe for the first post in this series, “Cape Canaveral Lighthouse.”

Sources of information for this post: I used information from the Wikipedia site for the key words V-1, Launch Complex 21, Launch Complex 22, Mace, Bull Goose.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved.

Lighthouse and Rockets

from Roman Numerals to Rockets

MichaelStephenWills10 Comments

Here is the third in a series of photographs centered on the early history of space flight on Cape Canaveral mostly taken during a tour organized by the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation. Google the foundation for details of future tours. Here we start with Roman Numerals and end with Rocket Research.

Inscribed Roman Numerals

We were lucky to be on this tour, for a period of time the Air Force closed off the Lighthouse. The Lighthouse Foundation obtained permission to start this tour in 2016 (this was January 2018) and I happened to discover it while poking around in preparation for the SpaceX “Falcon Heavy” launch in early February 2018.

As Pam and I climbed, each floor docent (volunteer guide) was so helpful with information and hospitality. At the last floor, the stairway to the upper floors was roped off. Top levels were closed, Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is operational. Here is a photograph of the closed off staircase. There is a roman numeral “6” (VI) inscribed in the staircase column. This is the numbering system described in the first post, “Cape Canaveral Lighthouse,” by which the entire 151-foot lighthouse can be disassembled/reassembled as was done in the 19th century.

Stairway to Upper Floors

The fine finish of the handrail termination for the stairs to upper floors is an example of 19th century attention to detail.

Macro of numeral inscription on a lower floor stairway column.

Roman Numeral 43 on staircase column of lower floor

View of Space History from the Portals

The lower staircase support column was much wider with space for illustrations and displays. Here is a reproduction of a watercolor of the lighthouse from the earliest days of rocketry on the cape. The lighthouse keeper, assistant and their families lived alongside the tower. The housing was later razed. The Lighthouse Foundation is raising money to build reproductions of the housing.

I put my copyright on the photograph to control copying. The copyright does NOT refer to the artwork.

The painting is an accurate representation of the tower. The dark spots are the windows, or portals, captured in my last post, “Lighthouse Details.” Every portal offered a view of historical or current rocketry. In the following photograph, beyond the outbuilding, is a blockhouse, protection for the early rocket scientists, now abandoned. The structure services launch complex 21 and 22. More in a later post.

Wreckage with Recollections of Werner von Braun

Depending on your viewpoint, the landscape around the tower is either littered with or graced by relics such as the wreckage in the following photograph.

As we stood on the exterior staircase, looking toward the building in the following photograph, the docent told a story of Werner von Braun, how he loved to smoke cigarettes and watch rocket tests from the top of the lighthouse. After some spectacular failures, for reasons of personal safety he was excluded from the tower. His office during the development of the Minute Man and Persing missiles was in this building.

Building next to the lighthouse where Werner VonBraun had an office during the early days of USA rocket research.

This view overlooks the former sites of Minute Man and Persing rocket development. Beyond the launch towers is Port Cape Canaveral, visible to the right are large cruise ships.

Viewed from the Cape Canaveral lighthouse, the port i is in the distance with cruise ships.

Looking from portals facing northeast is this view across ICBM road and its many launch sites. We will visit these in a future post.

Viewed from the Cape Canaveral lighthouse, these are active launch sites.
ClickMe for the first post in this series, “Cape Canaveral Lighthouse.”

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved.

Behind the Scenes of the Final Frontier: Our Tour with NASA’s “Launch Director” – 4

Imagine yourself floating in the vast cargo bay of the Space Shuttle Atlantis, surrounded by the essentials of space exploration. Here, in this dynamic space, the dreams of astronauts and scientists converge, where each mission reshapes our understanding of the universe. Curious? Discover more inside.

MichaelStephenWills7 Comments

Atlantis Cargo Bay


The cargo bay of the Space Shuttle Atlantis was an extensive, empty compartment located at the shuttle’s aft end, acting as the main storage area for mission payloads. A significant portion of the cargo was housed within a sizable cylindrical module named Raffaello, which contained a year’s supply of necessities—food, clothing, water, replacement parts, and scientific gear.


The dimensions of the payload area were roughly 4.6 meters (15 feet) in width and 18 meters (60 feet) in length. This spacious area enabled the shuttle to transport a diverse array of payloads, ranging from satellites to complex scientific experiments.

Exploring the Cargo Bay


Envision yourself drifting through the cargo bay of Atlantis, encircled by a maze of wires, equipment, and neatly arranged payloads. Astronauts, tethered securely and clad in their voluminous space suits, would navigate this area, ensuring the payloads were fastened correctly for either launch or retrieval operations.


The cargo bay’s configuration was highly adaptable, tailored to meet the specific needs of each mission. It played a pivotal role in the deployment of satellites, execution of repairs, or the transportation of scientific apparatus, adapting its setup as necessary.

The Hubble Servicing Mission


One of the most notable missions involving Atlantis was the Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission 4 (SM4). For this mission, Atlantis was loaded with essential items for the Hubble, including new instruments, batteries, and gyroscopes, all carefully organized within the cargo bay for safe transport to and into orbit.

Legacy

The cargo bay of Atlantis bore witness to a myriad of significant events: the release of satellites, the construction of the International Space Station, and numerous scientific investigations. Its design and flexibility were instrumental to the Space Shuttle program’s achievements.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Saint Patrick’s Return to the Hill of Tara

The year 2000 AD return of Saint Patrick to the Hill of Tara. Happy Saint Patrick’s Day

MichaelStephenWills18 Comments

To continue my posting “Climb Hill of Tara” my first submission of three Hill of Tara photographs to Getty Istock had two of the photographs returned for revision.

A statue of Saint Patrick fittingly welcomes visitors to the Hill of Tara, County Meath, Ireland. This statue of cast concrete was an existing statue donated by the Sisters of Charity, moved from an existing installation to the Hill of Tara in the year 2000 AD. The creator is anonymous, the is no plaque or other attribution on or around the statue.

The original statue was erected on the summit of the Hill of Tara shortly after Catholic emancipation in 1829, commemorated the events of 433AD when St. Patrick lit a bonfire on the nearby hill of Slane on the eve of Easter Sunday.

Lighting such a fire was contrary to the pagan laws of the time which dictated that the first fire lit that night be in Tara. Observing St. Patrick’s bonfire from afar, the chief druid of the ancient Gaelic capital predicted that if the flame were not extinguished that night, Christianity would never be extinguished in Ireland.
The saint’s bonfire continued burning and the next morning, Easter Sunday, St. Patrick entered Tara to convert the king and his followers to Christianity.

For the fenced statue of Saint Patrick the revieweR wrote:

Please provide a full description for the work of art featured in this image. Include the artist, date of creation, location, etc. Works of art created by someone other than yourself must be free of copyright protection to be considered. If this work of art is indeed under copyright protection, a property release signed by the copyright holder will need to be provided.

Hmmmm….What I do while capturing a photograph of a statue is take photos of any plaque, sign, whatever to acquire the name of the creator, how it came to be there, community connections. There was nothing around the statue nor the very informative Office of Public Works placards at the entrance.  I was proud to submit the statue photograph, as it turned out so well, and hoped for the best.

Last week, I put in a query to Ireland’s Office of Public Works (OPW), the agency responsible for the Hill of Tara, and did not receive a response when, for other queries, they were helpful.  This Saturday and Monday mornings, several hours of internet research revealed this history.

The original statue was placed on Tara sometime after the 1829 Catholic emancipation.  It was molded concrete, created by Thomas Curry of Navan at his own expense to honor the connection of Saint Patrick to Tara.

The OPW removed Curry’s statue 1992 for repair of a century of wear.  During the removal the statue was damaged beyond repair and, afterwards, was further damaged by vandals who decapitated and used it for target practice.

Initially, the OWP decided not to replace Saint Patrick citing the “pagan” nature of the place. After an angry meeting of local people at the Skryne Parish Hall.  In this meeting the local Rathfeigh Historical Society formed the “Committee to Restore St. Patrick to Tara.”  In turn, pressure was put on Michael D. Higgins, Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht (and the OPW). It was decided a new statue was to be created, based on a competition, and instead of it former place at the hill summit (called Rath na Rí), it was to be near the entrance, outside the Interpretative Center, to offer a Céad Míle Fáilte to visitors and be seen on departure.

The outcome was the competition winner was rejected by locals.  The winning entry, by sculptor Annette Hennessy, did not follow competition rules that specified the statue incorporate traditional features to include shamrocks, harp, miter, a crozier and, perhaps, fleeing snakes. Hennessy’s design was of a shaven headed teenage boy in a short (“mini-skirt”) kilt, a handbag-shaped bell in hand.  She agreed hers was “not a traditional style statue” saying it “acknowledges our Pagan Celtic history.”

The rejection included a statement from Dr. Leo Curran, chairman of the Rathfeigh Historical Society, “We agreed that most of the monuments in Tara are from the pre-Christian era, but St. Patrick should be at the uppermost layer, representing Christian tradition extinguishing paganism.”

By this time, a new government and minister were in place.  The decision was made to search Ireland to find a suitable, existing, replacement statue.  By 2000 the present statue, donated by the Sisters of Charity, was in place at the Hill of Tara entrance.

At the end of this post I provide the two references from my internet research and from which many facts and all the quotes were used here.  I concluded the statue author was anonymous without copyright protection and submitted a revised image description, attaching a copy of my research.

What happened to my IStock photograph of Saint Patrick on the Hill of Tara? Getty accepted my application, published the photo and it is one of my top downloads, and earners.

Please browse my reasonably priced stock photography.  License a photograph, download and use it for your website or blog.  Click this link to browse all my Getty IStock Photography offerings.

Or click this link or any photograph or this link to select a print with custom framing from my “Ireland” Fine Art Gallery.

References :
“Should St Patrick stand again on Tara?” Independent, Dublin, Ireland March 17, 1999.
“Statue of Saint Patrick”, Meath Roots web site. The page includes photograph of the Thomas Curry statue.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Behind the Scenes of the Final Frontier: Our Tour with NASA’s “Launch Director” – 3

Step beyond Earth’s bounds and glimpse the astounding intricacies of the Space Shuttle’s journey. Discover the engineering marvels that propelled humanity into orbit and back, navigating the cosmos with precision. Unveil the secrets of the stars now.

MichaelStephenWills3 Comments

The Space Shuttle, officially known as the Space Transportation System (STS), was an iconic spacecraft operated by NASA from 1981 to 2011. It consisted of an orbiter with wings for landing like an airplane, external fuel tanks, and solid rocket boosters. With its multiple missions ranging from satellite deployment to the construction of the International Space Station, the Space Shuttle was a symbol of human ingenuity in space exploration. Central to the Shuttle’s success was its navigational system, which combined state-of-the-art technology of its time with human expertise.

The navigation of the Space Shuttle was a complex orchestration involving both internal and external elements designed to work in the harsh environment of space. The photographs attached illustrate some of the external navigational elements.

External Navigational Elements

The external surface of the Space Shuttle, as seen in the following images, was covered with thousands of thermal protection system tiles. These tiles were crucial not only for protecting the Shuttle from the extreme temperatures experienced during re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere but also housed the critical sensors for navigation.

Reaction Control System (RCS)

One of the key external navigational features was the Reaction Control System (RCS), seen as clusters of small circular ports below the cockpit windows. The RCS was composed of small thrusters that could fire in short bursts to adjust the Shuttle’s orientation or speed in space. This system was vital during the maneuvers in orbit, such as satellite deployment, docking with the International Space Station, and repositioning for re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere.

Internal Navigational Elements

Internally, the Space Shuttle featured a complex avionics system. The following image depicts part of the orbiter’s internal structure with an array of docking mechanisms and sensor housings. The round port, surrounded by a ring of bolts, is likely an interface for the Orbiter Docking System, used for rendezvous and docking with the International Space Station.

The following image shows a close-up of one of the orbiter’s windows, surrounded by reinforced panels. Each window was crucial for manual navigation, allowing astronauts to visually confirm their orientation and position relative to celestial objects and the Earth. The windows were also essential during landing, which was conducted manually by the Shuttle’s commander.

Navigational Avionics

The Shuttle’s navigation was supported by an avionics system that included inertial measurement units (IMUs), star trackers, and various other sensors. IMUs tracked the Shuttle’s position by measuring its velocity and direction, while star trackers used sightings of known star patterns to calibrate the Shuttle’s orientation in the vastness of space.

The navigational computers onboard processed data from these systems to maintain the trajectory and manage the Shuttle’s multiple systems. The computers were capable of autonomous operation, although astronauts were trained to take over manually if necessary.

Ground Support and Telemetry

In addition to onboard systems, navigation relied heavily on ground-based tracking and data relay satellites. The Shuttle communicated with NASA’s Mission Control Center, which monitored its position and trajectory, providing updates and corrections as needed. Telemetry data sent back to Earth included velocity, altitude, and engine performance metrics, which were crucial for ensuring the Shuttle’s safe passage in and out of orbit.

In Summary

The Space Shuttle’s navigational capabilities were a testament to the integration of technology and human skill. From the RCS ports on its tiled exterior to the sophisticated avionics inside, every component played a critical role in the Shuttle’s missions. This harmonious blend of internal mechanisms and external sensors, complemented by vigilant ground support, enabled the Space Shuttle to navigate the cosmos and return safely home, mission after mission.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Behind the Scenes of the Final Frontier: Our Tour with NASA’s “Launch Director” – 2

Peer through the Space Shuttle’s windows, marvels of human ingenuity that withstood the cosmos’s extremes. Experience the awe of Earth’s view from orbit and the intense blaze of re-entry, all behind the clarity of fused silica glass. Dive into the fusion of science and exploration—read the full voyage of these extraordinary panes.

MichaelStephenWills2 Comments

The windows of the Space Shuttle represent a pinnacle of engineering and material science, intricately designed to withstand the harsh realities of space travel while providing astronauts with a vital connection to the outside universe. The journey of these windows, from concept to creation and through their performance in the harsh environment of space, is a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of exploration.

At the heart of the Space Shuttle’s windows is fused silica glass, a material selected for its exceptional properties, including high thermal resistance, strength, and optical clarity. This choice was crucial, as the windows had to endure rapid temperature shifts from the cold vacuum of space to the searing heat of re-entry, which could exceed 1,650 degrees Celsius (3,000 degrees Fahrenheit). Corning Incorporated, known for its innovative glass solutions, was responsible for manufacturing this fused silica, utilizing a high-purity synthesis process that ensured the material could withstand the extreme conditions of space without degrading.

The design and assembly process of the Shuttle’s windows was a feat of engineering. Each window was carefully framed and installed to maintain the spacecraft’s integrity and internal pressure in the vacuum of space. This involved a complex sealing mechanism that had to be both robust and fail-safe, ensuring the safety of the crew and the success of the mission. The installation process was rigorous, involving a series of tests that simulated the harsh conditions of space to validate the windows’ performance. These tests were crucial to identifying and rectifying any potential issues that could compromise the mission or the astronauts’ safety.

In space, the Shuttle’s windows faced numerous challenges, from the threat of micrometeoroid impacts to the intense radiation of the sun. Despite these hazards, the windows performed admirably, a testament to their design and the materials used. One notable instance of their resilience was observed during the STS-61 mission, where despite micrometeoroid impacts, the windows’ integrity remained intact, ensuring the crew’s safety and mission success.

The windows also played a critical role during the Shuttle’s re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, a phase of the mission that subjected the spacecraft to extreme heat. The windows’ ability to withstand this heat while providing the crew with a clear view for navigation was vital for a safe landing. This was achieved through the use of multiple glass layers and protective coatings, which insulated the interior from the re-entry heat.

Beyond their technical specifications and performance, the Space Shuttle’s windows served a more profound purpose. They provided astronauts with a visual connection to the Earth and space, offering perspectives that few humans have experienced. These views not only aided scientific observation and mission operations but also offered moments of unparalleled beauty, inspiring both astronauts and people on Earth.

The legacy of the Space Shuttle’s windows extends beyond their technical achievements, embodying the spirit of exploration and the human quest for knowledge. They were not merely components of a spacecraft but windows to the universe, enabling us to look beyond our planet and dream of the possibilities that lie in the vast expanse of space. Through their resilience, clarity, and performance, the Space Shuttle’s windows stand as a symbol of human ingenuity, a small but significant part of our journey to the stars.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Behind the Scenes of the Final Frontier: Our Tour with NASA’s “Launch Director” – 1

Discover an insider’s voyage to the heart of NASA’s launch operations with us as we relive the awe-inspiring Kennedy Space Center Tour, where every corner whispers tales of cosmic ventures and human courage.

MichaelStephenWills11 Comments

Introduction

Late winter 2017 my wife Pam and I embarked on an extraordinary adventure that would etch an indelible mark on our memories. On March 2nd, we had the unique privilege of experiencing the Kennedy Space Center through the eyes of a NASA Launch Director. This wasn’t just any tour; it was a journey through the heart of space exploration, a narrative brought to life by someone who had been at the helm of launching dreams into the cosmos.

The Kennedy Space Center, a beacon of human achievement on Florida’s coastline, stood before us, brimming with stories of courage, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of the unknown. As we stepped onto the grounds, we were not just visitors but participants in a legacy stretching back to the earliest days of space travel. The “NASA Launch Director Tour” promised an inside look at the complexities and triumphs of space missions, a perspective few ever witness.

This series of blog posts is an attempt to capture the essence of that day, to share the insights, emotions, and awe-inspiring moments we experienced. From the thunderous silence of the launch pads to the intimate stories of missions past, each post will explore a different facet of our journey. Join us as we relive an unforgettable exploration of human ingenuity and the boundless reaches of space, all through the lens of a day that brought the stars within reach.

Gathering and Introductions

On the negative side, we enjoyed the expertise of “Jeff” who stood in for the retired Launch Director who was “out sick.” On the positive side, our very expensive fee for the tour was refunded. Jeff was everything we could expect from the tour — he had extensive and detailed insider knowledge of NASA and the launch facilities.

Jeff, our substitute guide
Shuttle Booster and Fuel Tank, standing below
Carl Sagan Quote
Carl Sagan Quote and family
Shuttle Booster and Fuel Tank, an typical adult human would parbely reach the first orange “O” ring

We gathered in a media room, an antechamber to the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

Entry to the Atlantis and the

Space Shuttle Atlantis lifted off on its maiden voyage STS-51-J on October 3, 1985. This was the second shuttle mission that was a dedicated Department of Defense mission. It flew one other mission, STS-61-B (the second shuttle night launch) before the Challenger disaster temporarily grounded the shuttle fleet in 1986. Among the five Space Shuttles flown into space, Atlantis conducted a subsequent mission in the shortest time after the previous mission (turnaround time) when it launched in November 1985 on STS-61-B, only 50 days after its previous mission, STS-51-J in October 1985. Atlantis was then used for ten flights from 1988 to 1992. Two of these, both flown in 1989, deployed the planetary probes Magellan to Venus (on STS-30) and Galileo to Jupiter (on STS-34). With STS-30 Atlantis became the first Space Shuttle to launch an interplanetary probe.

The orbiter’s aluminum structure could not withstand temperatures over 175 °C (347 °F) without structural failure. Aerodynamic heating during reentry would push the temperature well above this level in areas, so an effective insulator was needed.

The Thermal protection system (TPS) covered essentially the entire orbiter surface, and consisted of seven different materials in varying locations based on amount of required heat protection:

–Reinforced carbon–carbon (RCC), used in the nose cap, the chin area between the nose cap and nose landing gear doors, the arrowhead aft of the nose landing gear door, and the wing leading edges. Used where reentry temperature exceeded 1,260 °C (2,300 °F).

Reinforced carbon–carbon (RCC) of the nose cap and “chin area”


–High-temperature reusable surface insulation (HRSI) tiles, used on the orbiter underside. Made of coated LI-900 silica ceramics. Used where reentry temperature was below 1,260 °C.
–Fibrous refractory composite insulation (FRCI) tiles, used to provide improved strength, durability, resistance to coating cracking and weight reduction. Some HRSI tiles were replaced by this type.
–Flexible Insulation Blankets (FIB), a quilted, flexible blanket-like surface insulation. Used where reentry temperature was below 649 °C (1,200 °F).

–Low-temperature Reusable Surface Insulation (LRSI) tiles, formerly used on the upper fuselage, but were mostly replaced by FIB. Used in temperature ranges roughly similar to FIB.
–Toughened unipiece fibrous insulation (TUFI) tiles, a stronger, tougher tile which came into use in 1996. Used in high and low temperature areas.
–Felt reusable surface insulation (FRSI). White Nomex felt blankets on the upper payload bay doors, portions of the mid fuselage and aft fuselage sides, portions of the upper wing surface and a portion of the OMS/RCS pods. Used where temperatures stayed below 371 °C (700 °F).
Each type of TPS had specific heat protection, impact resistance, and weight characteristics, which determined the locations where it was used and the amount used.

The shuttle TPS had three key characteristics that distinguished it from the TPS used on previous spacecraft:

Reusable
Previous spacecraft generally used ablative heat shields which burned off during reentry and so could not be reused. This insulation was robust and reliable, and the single-use nature was appropriate for a single-use vehicle. By contrast, the reusable shuttle required a reusable thermal protection system.
Lightweight
Previous ablative heat shields were very heavy. For example, the ablative heat shield on the Apollo Command Module comprised about 15% of the vehicle weight. The winged shuttle had much more surface area than previous spacecraft, so a lightweight TPS was crucial.
Fragile
The only known technology in the early 1970s with the required thermal and weight characteristics was also so fragile, due to the very low density, that one could easily crush a TPS tile by hand.

Reinforced carbon–carbon (RCC) of the nose cap, close-up

The Space Shuttle thermal protection system (TPS) is the barrier that protected the Space Shuttle Orbiter during the searing 1,650 °C (3,000 °F) heat of atmospheric reentry. A secondary goal was to protect from the heat and cold of space while in orbit.


During the launch of STS-27 in 1988, a piece of insulation shed from the right solid rocket booster struck the underside of the vehicle, severely damaging over 700 tiles and removing one tile altogether. The crew were instructed to use the remote manipulator system to survey the condition of the underside of the right wing, ultimately finding substantial tile damage. Due to the classified nature of the mission, the only images transferred to the mission control center were encrypted and of extremely poor quality. Mission control personnel deemed the damage to be “lights and shadows” and instructed the crew to proceed with the mission as usual, infuriating many of the crew. Upon landing, Atlantis became the single-most-damaged shuttle to successfully land. The survival of the crew is attributed to a steel L band antenna plate which was positioned directly under the missing tile. A similar situation would eventually lead to the loss of the shuttle Columbia in 2003, albeit on the more critical reinforced carbon-carbon.

References: extensive sections of the following Wikipedia articles were quoted, "Space Shuttle thermal protection system," "Space Shuttle  Atlantis."

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Between Dunes and Discovery: Embracing History at Kennedy Space Center

Explore Cape Canaveral National Seashore and Kennedy Space Center with us, where pristine beaches meet the legacy of human space exploration, and feel the awe of standing where history was made.

MichaelStephenWills10 Comments

A Journey Through Time and Space: Our Visit to Cape Canaveral National Seashore and Kennedy Space Center

As we arrived at the pristine shores of Playalinda Beach within the Canaveral National Seashore, the gentle whisper of waves against the shoreline beckoned us. The sun kissed the horizon, casting a warm glow across the 24 miles of untouched, protected coastline that lay before us. Here, on the east coast of Florida, where crystal-blue waters embrace the shell-laden sands, we found ourselves at the intersection of natural beauty and human achievement.

 

Shell of the Moon Snail (Naticidae) found in the surf wash.

 

The Serenity of Playalinda

We strode along the boardwalk, passing through dunes adorned with sea oats, to find our spot upon the soft sands of Playalinda. The beach, known for its tranquility and the chance to observe a vibrant array of wildlife, offered us a moment of peace. With no distractions—no concessions, no showers, just nature—we were able to disconnect from the world and reconnect with the earth. From our vantage point, the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge across the water was a haven for migrating birds, dolphins, and, with some luck and the right season, sea turtles nest on the beach itself.

 

Witness to History: The Apollo 11 Legacy

But it wasn’t just the natural allure that drew us here. Playalinda holds a unique position, offering an unobstructed view of the historic launch pads of Kennedy Space Center, where Apollo 11 began its monumental journey to the Moon. As we walked south towards the fence bordering the Space Center, the anticipation built within us. Here, we were tracing the footsteps of giants, those brave astronauts who dared to venture into the unknown.

 

 

The Vistas of Exploration

Each step brought us closer to the site where humanity took one of its most significant leaps. Gazing upon the launch complex from the fence, we were reminded of the powerful forces harnessed to break the bonds of gravity. Imagining the roar of the engines, the earth-shaking vibrations, and the fiery ascent of the Saturn V rocket, we felt a deep connection to the past and a sense of awe for the pioneering spirit that propelled us into a new era of exploration.

Reflections Amidst the Dunes

As we wandered back along the beach, the foam of the ocean’s edge lapping at our feet, we reflected on the duality of our surroundings. Here, in this place of quiet solitude, we also stood at the forefront of human innovation and ambition. The juxtaposition of the peaceful beach with the technological marvels just a stone’s throw away was not lost on us.

 

Our journey to the Cape Canaveral National Seashore and the Kennedy Space Center fence was more than just a visit to a beach or a historic site; it was a pilgrimage to a place where dreams materialize and reach for the stars. It was here that we came to understand the full spectrum of emotions that accompany great achievements—the hope, the fear, the triumph.

 

Conclusion

Our visit to the Cape Canaveral National Seashore and the Kennedy Space Center was an experience that will linger in our memories for years to come. It was a reminder of what we can achieve when we are united by a common goal, and it filled us with pride and optimism for the future. As we looked back one last time, the setting sun seemed to whisper a promise of the wonders yet to come, both here on the shores of Playalinda and in the vast expanse of space that awaits us.

 

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Illuminating Discoveries: Solving the Red Light Enigma in Cocoa Beach

Dive into a fictional adventure in Cocoa Beach, where a mysterious red light sparks curiosity. Join Emma and Alex as they unravel the surprising truth behind a crimson glow.

MichaelStephenWills9 Comments

I’ve always been captivated by the unusual, so when I first saw that mysterious red light beaming from the ninth floor of the Cape Royal Office Condominium in Cocoa Beach, I was instantly hooked. The theories around town were wild—some said it was a secret alien signal, others whispered about hidden, illicit activities.

 

I knew I needed help to investigate, and who better than Emma, the local journalist with a knack for uncovering the truth? I approached her with my theory, and her eyes lit up with curiosity. “Alex, this sounds like a story worth exploring. Let’s see what’s really going on with that red light,” she said enthusiastically.

Disguised as potential clients, we managed to get access to the ninth floor. The anticipation was palpable as we walked through the doors of Howe Photonics, only to find a busy office, not the den of intrigue we’d imagined.

 

“Hi, I’m Gary Howe,” the managing director greeted us with a knowing smile. “I assume you’re here about the red light?”

I exchanged a look with Emma. “Yes, we are,” she said. “There’s been a lot of speculation in town about it.”

Gary chuckled. “Well, let me clear things up. We specialize in red light therapy systems. The light you’ve seen is from our custom-made LEDs used for therapeutic purposes. They’ve been approved by the FDA.”

 

I was stunned. “So, it’s not a signal to aliens or anything like that?” I asked, half-joking.

“No, Alex, nothing as exciting as that,” Gary replied with a smile.

Emma and I learned more about the therapy and its benefits from Gary and his son, Howard. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder at the science behind it all. Emma, always the professional, asked insightful questions, capturing every detail.

Gary then offered us a chance to try the therapy. As I relaxed under the soothing red light, I felt a wave of calmness and rejuvenation. “This is incredible, Emma. It’s so different from what we imagined.”

Returning to Cocoa Beach, we were eager to share our findings. Emma penned a detailed article for the local paper, while I created a documentary featuring interviews with the Howes and locals like Judith Brinkly, who had seen remarkable results from the therapy.

 

The story of the red light shifted from mystery to a source of health and wellness. The once-feared glow now drew people in, eager to experience the benefits for themselves. The mysterious red light, previously the subject of wild rumors, became a celebrated part of our community.

Reflecting on our adventure, I’m grateful for Emma’s support and insight. “You know, Emma, we really changed the narrative here. It’s amazing what a little curiosity and investigation can do.”

Emma smiled. “Absolutely, Alex. We turned fear into understanding and appreciation. That’s the power of seeking the truth.”

The red light of the Cape Royal Office Condominium, once a symbol of mystery and intrigue, now stood as a beacon of hope and healing. Emma and I had uncovered not just a story, but a testament to the power of curiosity and the pursuit of truth.

Note: the persons named in this story are fictional characters. The building and the nature of the red light is real.

 

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved