A Delta IV rocket launched a satellite last August 22 for the United States Air Force. This satellite joined other operational global positioning systems (GPS) satellites already in orbit. GPS delivers positioning, navigation and timing services supporting the United States and other operations.
The satellite has been named “Magallanes” after Ferdinand Magallanes, the explorer who led the first expedition to circumnavigate Earth. This was the last opportunity to see the launch of Delta IV rocket as this was its final flight.
Fortunately, I was at Kennedy Space Visitor Center complex that day and I could see the launch with my loved Ryce at the LC-39 Observation Gantry. An amazing experience!!
Located at the historic Launch Complex 39, where Apollo astronauts launched to the moon, the LC-39 Observation Gantry is the absolute closest viewing area to the launch pads of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Shaded viewing from the gantry and outdoor bleacher seating make this the premium launch viewing area, situated just 5 miles from launch pads.
Watch the launch below:
The Rocket Launch was really cool! Waking Ben up at 4:45 a.m. on his vacation to get to the launch area on time was another thing, but he happily went along with the idea. The only thing that Ben did not want to do is take the Zip Line over 600 Florida Alligators and Crocodiles with me at the Saint Augustine Alligator Farm. He thought I was crazy for wanting to do it. It is a wild experience, the gators jump up right at you since humans are tasty treats for the critters! You can see all about this fun attraction here! Maybe next time! https://youtu.be/-urb2MKyPLM
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