Tag: rockets

Who…little old me?

On what subject(s) are you an authority?

In my job I’m a jack of all trades and master of none. I’m just someone who is there to organise a response when the dirt hits the fan.

However, ask me about aircraft and rocket technology and I’m your man.

It’s good that most of the youngsters in the family will turn to uncle Dave when there is a technical question, and I like that. It’s good to see the concentration on their faces as I’m explaining things to them.

In fact I’m quite an authority on irrelevant and pointless facts as well.

Have a grand day.

STS 79 Launch Kennedy LC-39A

Describe one of your favorite moments.

I was very fortunate to see the launch of a space shuttle.

STS-79 mission patch

The date was 16th September 1996 and the launch was the 17th launch of the space shuttle Atlantis as STS-79. Its mission was to dock with the Russian space station Mir, and to deliver equipment and supplies and relief personnel.

I was fortunate that we were holidaying in Florida at the time, so it all blended in just lovely.

Launch pad 39a
KSC Shuttle display

We had travelled to KSC a few days prior to launch and did the full touristy thing, we went back a few days later in the very early hours of the morning to watch the launch and were not disappointed. It truly is a moment that will stay in my mind forever.

Happy day to you all