Space Shuttle Endeavor liftoff!

Last night was the launch of the Space Shuttle Endeavor. Because the kids were having a sleepover at our house we were unable to drive over to Titusville to watch the launch from across the bay. Instead we popped out the door, all 4 kids in tow, and watched it ascend through the night sky from the yard across from our condo.

We've been studying the American Space Program this last week or so, and the kids were excited to see this launch, because they actually understood what was going on.

It was somewhat cloudy last night, which affected how the light from the engines was distorted. We didn't get the huge glow we did when we watched a different night launch a couple years ago. This time is was subdued, but still breathtaking to watch.

Here the shuttle has just passed by the moon (from my point of view)


Here you can really see the vapor trail. During the day it would be a stream of white cloudy smoke. But at night it's a whole other experience.


Here the shuttle is now out of view in the large clouds in the top left of the frame. But look at that trail! It's so beautiful with the silvery moon partially hidden in dark clouds. I love this picture :D


We were unable to hear the massive boom that comes with a launch because the wind was moving away from us going north. The kids were dissapointed they didn't get to hear the explosion. And I was too. :P Even without the boom, it was still a sight to see!