Quote:
Originally Posted by onewhippedpuppy
Before I die, I will see a launch in person. I'm sure by then it won't be the space shuttle any more, but something. I've always thought that would be amazing to watch.
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Back in 85, I attended the 2nd night-time shuttle launch, STS-61B. A realtive was a back up mission specialist, so we got to get in the 3 mile VIP area. YOu can feel the heat from that far away, and something you miss during televised launches is the distinct 'crackle' over the incredible roar. 3 miles away it take a little time to reach you. It goes from very dark to very bright in a hurry! I brought a Nikon F3 with an MD-4 motor drive. Shot 800 through a 600mm mirror lens. The excitement got the better of me and I burned up 36 exposures in short fashion! Still came out really nice after I tweaked in the darkroom for a few hours. I think the 8x10's are at the ex's house somewhere. I should have one of the kids go over there and hunt them down for me.
The after-party was a blast.
Bad hangover flying home the next day!