NASA is offering visitors rare access to several key areas of Kennedy Space Center during its 50th anniversary year to enhance a popular destination that already features an array of "authentic attractions showcasing the space program and opportunities for up-close viewing of ongoing rocket launches."
"A special Kennedy Space Center Up-Close Tour has been extended through the end of 2012 to provide visitors a look inside the 525-foot-tall Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB), where the Apollo rockets and space shuttles were assembled," said PRNewswire.
One of the largest buildings in the world, the VAB had been off limits to visitors for more than 30 years until the tour was added last November.
The space agency is also working with Delaware North Companies on final details of new tours featuring operational areas that visitors have also rarely had the chance to see. Announcements regarding the new tours are expected in the coming weeks.
The visitor complex remains one of the best vantage points to see rocket launches taking place from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. More than 10 launches have been scheduled for 2012 for various purposes.
"There’s an opportunity to see fascinating aspects of the space program that few people have seen, and a chance your visit can coincide with a rocket launch," said Bill Moore, chief operating officer of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
The 50th anniversary year also features several special events.
Each year, 1.5 million tourist visit the space center, making it among Florida’s top destinations.
By David Wilkening
