Reported by Scott Harris
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER -- It's one of the most asked questions we get here at News 13. Where is the best place to watch a launch?
Most of the time, we're talking about shuttle missions, but with the new Ares vehicle, the views may change a bit for tomorrow morning's scheduled launch.
The Ares 1-X is taller -- much taller -- than a normal space shuttle. It stands 15 stories taller than the shuttle.
You will be able to see it as it sits on the launch pad from many different places across the area.
The launch trajectory however, will be a bit different than a typical shuttle launch.
When a shuttle is launched heading to the Space Station, it heads north east, giving great view to those in New Smyrna Beach.
But the Ares won't be doing that, at least for this mission.
The Ares is set to launch and head directly east over the Atlantic Ocean.
The big question, how dramatic will that launch be and how will the sound compare to a shuttle launch?
We don't know, but we'll find out.
As far as viewing location, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is offering viewing tickets for the event.
Titusville is another good option. It is about 12 miles from the launch pad- and is the closest off-site/free location.
The view from anywhere in Titusville along the Indian River, running the length of U.S. 1 from Garden Street in the north down to around Highway 50 in the south is perfectly clear across the water to the launch pad.
One of the more popular places the aptly named Spaceview Park at the northern end of Titusville.
The Astronaut Walk of Fame is here too, which is a good place to pass the time while waiting for launch.
There are some closures to be aware of for the launch.
Cape Canaveral National Seashore and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge will be closed until after launch.
No matter where you are, be sure to bring your camera and snap away!
We want you to send us your pictures and launch day reports. let us know if you have a great spot to watch or a place to avoid!
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