NASA’s Space Shuttle program is scheduled to end in September, 2010 – if the scheduled missions launch with success - so if seeing a Space Shuttle launch is on your bucket list, now’s the time to schedule that Florida trip and see a shuttle launch from the Kennedy Space Center. Here’s a list of scheduled launches with all missions going to the International Space Station. The schedule is subject to change because factors may delay a launch (such as weather) so when booking your Florida vacation, plan on an extra few days.

Orlando makes a great base when planning a shuttle launch vacation since it’s about a 90-minute drive, however on launch days, plan on an additional hour or two drive time. You’ll be able to experience both the thrill of a launch and Florida’s best theme parks.

While the Kennedy Space Center offers premium viewing of the space shuttle, there are many other viewing points such as parks, piers, and parking lots (I know, not very glamorous but true!). And if you can’t make a space shuttle launch, rockets will continue to be launched from the Kennedy Space Center. Other cool activities offered at the Center include lunch with an astronaut and the Shuttle Launch Experience where a shuttle launch is simulated for us common folks so we can feel almost like astronauts. Check out the Kennedy Space Center Web site to keep up to date on launch schedules and other activities and visit the Space Coast Launches site for viewing tips and other activities that are out of this world. And don’t forget to book your stay with Resort Rentals, Inc., for the best Florida vacation value.

Remaining Launch Dates for the Space Shuttle Program
March 18, 1:34 p.m.              Space Shuttle Discovery STS-131
May 14, 2:28 p.m.                 Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-132
July 29, 7:51 a.m.                  Space Shuttle Endeavor STS-134
September 16, 11:57 a.m.    Space Shuttle Discovery STS-133