Apr 22, 2023: Kennedy Space Center

IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ THE RULES AND REGULATIONS AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT

All spots are full, unfortunately! We'll announce if and when more open up.

We are excited to announce a trip to Kennedy Space Center on April 22, 2023! Join us as we explore the history and future of space exploration, and witness firsthand the incredible technology and innovation that has made space travel possible. During our trip, we will have the opportunity to tour the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, which includes exhibits and displays on the history of NASA and the space program, as well as interactive experiences and multimedia presentations. We will also have the chance to see some of the most iconic sites at Kennedy Space Center, including the launch pads, the Vehicle Assembly Building, and the Saturn V rocket.

This trip is open to all members of the Astronomy and Astrophysics Society who are currently enrolled in the university and are in good academic standing. Permission from parents or legal guardians is required for participants under the age of 18. The cost of the tickets to KSC will be borne by AAS, and for this reason, spaces are limited.

This is an amazing opportunity to learn about the history and future of space exploration, and to see firsthand the incredible technology and innovation that makes it possible. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!

We can't wait to explore Kennedy Space Center with you! 

Registration

To sign up for the trip, please register here (https://forms.gle/fyCdctsRki1nGhZn7). You can also contact any AAS officer. Again, spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot soon.

Carpooling

Participants can register for carpooling here. 

Unfortunately, we will not be able to provide any reimbursement for fuel and tolls incurred during the trip. Participants are encouraged to share the cost of fuel with the rest of the occupants of their car. You can find toll-free route options in the "How to get there" section below.

How to get there?

The destination address is KSC Visitor Complex, Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953.

We recommend starting at 6:00 am (or earlier, if you need some buffer time) on the day of the trip to reach KSC by 9:00 am. Please discuss with the car driver about the pickup strategies and schedules.

There are two routes to reach Kennedy Space Center...

Route 1: Gainesville - Zuber - Silver Springs - Daytona - KSC (via FL-40 E and I-95 S)

Distance: 165 miles, Travel Time: 2h 40m to 3h

This route adds about 20 more minutes of drive time because of slower speed limits, but passes through the Ocala National Forest during sunrise, which is a beautiful sight. You will also rarely encounter traffic on this route.

Route 2: Gainesville - Orlando - KSC (via I-75 S, Florida Turnpike, and FL-50 E)

Distance: 157 miles, Travel Time: 2h 30m, Tolls: $8 one way.

This route cuts 20 to 30 min from the total drive, but the distance remains the same, and a toll is incurred for using the Florida Turnpike. Beware of the morning traffic in Orlando, even during the weekend, which can significantly increase travel time.

 Rules and Regulations

• Code of Conduct: All participants are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that is appropriate for a university club trip. This includes but is not limited to, respecting the rights and property of others, refraining from disruptive behavior, and refraining from the use of drugs or alcohol.
• Safety: All participants are expected to adhere to safety guidelines provided by AAS officers and the Kennedy Space Center staff. This includes but is not limited to, wearing appropriate footwear when required, staying within designated areas, and following all rules and regulations set by the Kennedy Space Center.
• Respect for the Kennedy Space Center: All participants are expected to show respect for the Kennedy Space Center, its staff, and its facilities. Vandalism, theft, or damage to Kennedy Space Center property will not be tolerated and may result in immediate dismissal from the trip.
• Emergency Contacts: All participants must provide emergency contact information to the AAS officers before departure.
• Health Concerns: All participants must inform the officers of any health concerns, allergies, or special needs before departure. This includes any medication that must be taken during the trip.
• Changes to the Itinerary: The trip itinerary may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or changes in Kennedy Space Center policies. Any changes will be communicated to all participants as soon as possible.
• Permission: All participants must have permission from their parents or legal guardians if they are under the age of 18.

By participating in this trip to the Kennedy Space Center, all participants agree to abide by these rules and regulations. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.