When did NASA begin buying land for Kennedy Space Center?
NASA began buying land on Merritt Island in 1962 to build a new launch center. The agency needed about 88,000 acres for its ambitious lunar program.
Questions about Kennedy Space Center
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What was the first rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center and when did it occur?
The first rocket launch from Kennedy Space Center occurred on the 9th of November 1967. Apollo 4 was an uncrewed test flight using the Saturn V rocket.
Why did NASA choose Kennedy Space Center over White Sands Missile Range?
NASA chose Kennedy Space Center over White Sands Missile Range in April 1972 due to its southern latitude and existing infrastructure. This decision favored KSC because of these specific geographic and logistical advantages.
How many times has lightning struck Apollo missions at Kennedy Space Center?
Apollo 12 was struck by lightning shortly after liftoff from Pad 39A on the 14th of November 1969. The most intense recorded strike hit LC-39B on the 25th of August 2006 while Atlantis prepared for STS-115.
Who were the three former astronauts that served as directors of Kennedy Space Center?
Three former astronauts later held the role: Robert L. Crippen, Roy D. Bridges Jr., and Robert D. Cabana. Crippen commanded STS-5 and became director in January 1992, Bridges took office in March 1997, and Cabana began his tenure in October 2008.