|
|
ASA’s May 3 rocket launch open to
public
A group of engineers will set a World’s Record by launching the
first amateur rocket to reach space. ASA, The Amateur Spaceflight
Association, will take one step closer to this goal on Saturday, May 3, with
a rocket launch from the Gulf Coast Regional Spaceport in Brazoria County.
ASA intends this flight to be another milestone in their quest for low cost
access to space.
ASA is a non-profit company formed to pioneer the field of amateur
space exploration. Rob Morehead, chief engineer and founder of ASA, stated:
“The primary focus of ASA is to encourage, assist, and facilitate the
amateur’s reach into space, enabling the more rapid advancement of
space research.”
The May 3 launch will consist of a 1/2-scale version of their space-capable
rocket. The flight will go faster than the speed of sound, reaching an
altitude of approximately 11,000 feet.
This launch was previously scheduled for February 8, but out of deference to
the lost crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia, the launch date was postponed
until May 3.
Hernandez Engineering of Clear Lake was hired to complete a flight safety
analysis and determine what flight systems can safely launch from the
Brazoria County site.
The May 3 launch is open to the public. The Gulf Coast Regional Spaceport is
preparing a special viewing area near the launch site at the Brazoria County
Modeler’s Association runway on FM 523. Parking will be limited.
Those attending are asked to bring along a lawn chair and bottle of water.
For information, contact the Gulf Coast Regional Spaceport at (281) 652-1629.
Additional information about ASA is available at www.asa-houston.org.
|
