The SpaceX Launch Was Pretty Awesome

I am not a super big space geek, but I can appreciate great moments when I see them, and the SpaceX launch yesterday was just one of those moments.  I was disappointed on Wednesday when they cancelled the launch, but totally understand the safety reasons.  Yesterday I was busy doing some work outside when I happened to look at my phone about five minutes before the launch and was reminded about it.

I decided that would be a good time for a break and propped my phone up on the bookshelf outside to watch it.  It was really interesting to hear them talk about the last few steps they were taking before the launch.  Admittedly, I found myself worried that something would happen to prevent the launch such a weather or a mechanical issue.

Then in the last minute or so I was afraid there would be something catastrophic and Bob and Doug would lose their lives.  A risk that I know they were aware of, and that even Elon Musk addressed with their kids before the launch.  It is easy to forget the dangers of some of the things we do when they become a little more common.

I loved hearing the radio communications as they ran through their checklists in such a calm and professional manner, while there had to be a tremendous amount of concern with so many people watching.

Then when they hit zero on the countdown you could hear the excitement in her voice, and it seemed so personal and real as she wished them luck on their journey.  The whole thing may have been scripted, but it sounded like a very real response to the excitement of the moment.

As I watched the rocket shoot into the sky, I couldn’t help but get a little emotional.  I wasn’t crying like a baby, but I did get some tears in my eyes as I watched such a great accomplishment.  There is just something inspiring about watching people chase their dreams an accomplish great things.

I really hope that they continue down the designated path of getting back to the moon and on to Mars.  Not because I have any understanding of what each of those missions will entail, or because I understand the benefits it could have, but because it is an opportunity for us to pursue great things and set lofty goals.  It has always been what made America great, and is something we need in our lives again.

As I was watching the playback with my kids last night my 7 year old daughter said, “I wish I could work at NASA.”  I don’t think her uncertainty was because of the challenge of getting there, but more because she doesn’t yet realize that she can do anything she wants if she is willing to put in the work and effort to get there.

I am glad I was there to tell her that she can totally go work at NASA if she wants.  I don’t know if she will actually want to go that route, but I am grateful for Bob and Doug, NASA, and SpaceX for reminding us all that great things can be accomplished when we work together towards big dreams.