A Shuttle Launch

I know this blog is predominately about food. But I feel so strongly this morning I have to put this into words. Or at least try.

I just walked in from seeing one of the final space shuttle launches. Every launch I have ever seen has moved me emotionally. There are critics who say that the shuttle is old and out of date. And this is true. But really, what a beautiful machine. What incredible accomplishments it has had during its lifetime. Both scientifically, but also in bringing together a nation. Is it time for change in our space program? Yes, absolutely. But it is also time to remember the great things the space shuttle has done.

My memories of the shuttle range from lying on our backs in music class with our feet up on the wall pretending to be astronauts lifting off, to standing at the space center watching the shuttle take off. I have been humbled by the beauty of the launches and proud that for a short time, I was able to contribute to the program. I feel completely lucky that I have been able to live so close to the space center. That I have seen so many launches. That I got to work with the incredible team at KSC. I have been able to climb the launch pad, meet astronauts, and be within arm’s reach of a shuttle.

The launch this morning was beautiful. The skies were clear and the shuttle lit up the sky. A few minutes later, the rumble from the lift off made it to us and I was reminded of the shuttle’s power.

I apologize for the ramble this morning. Like I said, every launch moves me, but the closer we get to the end of the space shuttle program, it hits me even more. I am sad that we are losing something that has been so important to the United States, to science, to space exploration, and more. I am sad that we are stopping with no alternative, with no clear future for the program. I said above, it may be time for change, but I don’t believe it is time to stop with no clear path forward.

I just hope that a new plan, a new direction for NASA can be laid out soon. That we find some new path in space. I hope for all of you, that if you have not seen a space shuttle launch, that you take the opportunity to see one in the next couple of months. It truly is breathtaking.

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