Cocoa Beach for Space Shuttle Launch

[f stop]

I am heading to Cocoa Beach in a couple of weeks for Spring Break and see that there is a scheduled Space Shuttle Launch while I'm there. If I stay in Cocoa Beach, where can I get decent shots of the launch? I don't have viewing tickets and doubt I can get any now. Plus I am staying practically on the beach. Any suggestions? Also wondering about exposure. I have a 70-200 f/2.8 IS and a 1.4 extender. Thanks. I hope the weather cooperates.

[gjl711]

Never had the opportunity to shoot it myself, but I love all the shuttle pics. This thread has tons of info about all kind of shuttle related photography including pics.
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=810116&highlight=Space+Shuttle

[Mike Deep]

At that distance and given the launch time (6:21am) I'd try going for a long exposure to catch the shuttle arc. Launch Complex 39A is nearly directly North.

I'm uncertain what focal length or orientation you should use. It will likely be under 200mm, and composed so the pad is in the lower left corner of the frame.

[Sundevil9]

Pull an all nighter and try the 528 causeway. You'll have a direct view. Though it gets filled so get there early.

[RJC]

I tried twice from a spot in titusville. It was right across the water from the launch pad. Had a great view with all my gear set-up and it got scrubbed with about 5 mins left due to storms coming in. All I can say is good luck.

[BlindGuyTakingPictures]

Check the visitor's center to see if they can get you to a nice location.
http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/about/view/index.html

[xtra12@verizon.net]

Google misscape its a boat goes out of port canaveral for the launch costs 10 bucks per.

[jimm1909]

I am heading to Cocoa Beach (http://www.123world.com/cocoa-beach) in a couple of weeks for Spring Break and see that there is a scheduled Space Shuttle Launch while I'm there. If I stay in Cocoa Beach (http://www.cocoabeachhotels.com), where can I get decent shots of the launch? I don't have viewing tickets and doubt I can get any now. Plus I am staying practically on the beach. Any suggestions? Also wondering about exposure. I have a 70-200 f/2.8 IS and a 1.4 extender. Thanks. I hope the weather cooperates.

That sounds amazing. Did you get any pictures of it you can share?

Looking forward to them.

-Jim
Cocoa Beach Limo (http://www.cocoabeachhotels.com/transportation.php) Driver
Cocoa Beach Attractions (http://www.cocoabeachhotels.com/attractions.php)

[thaian07]

I saw the launch, it was amazing.

[David Morgan]

Pull an all nighter and try the 528 causeway. You'll have a direct view. Though it gets filled so get there early.


There are what? Two launches left?

I'd say however early you have to get there, it's worth it.