Event 1: California Science Center

On Friday, April 20th, I went with my friend Bryan Mau (who is also in this class) to the California Science Center. What we wanted to see, in particular, was the Endeavour. Even though both of us are residents of Southern California, we have not seen this exhibition before.

Me at the second exhibit


We first went to the small warehouse that housed the Endeavour. The size of the space shuttle was awe-inspiring. It was over 200 feet long and 50 feet wide. Underneath the shuttle, you can see thousands of individually placed tiles about 6x6 inches each. Each tile has a unique, 10 character code. It shows how much individual care is given for each tile and part to make this masterpiece. The rest of this exhibition detailed the history of the various spacecraft launches of the United States.
The Endeavour

Afterward, we went to the next exhibit that detailed the behind the scenes of the space shuttle. There was a fascinating exhibit on how restrooms were used in space. It was a convoluted process with hoses, funnels and cameras. In addition, we saw the control system for the space shuttle. I was surprised that it was controlled by the company that I interned for last summer! The whole scene was chaotic with screens covered with graphs, camera views of the shuttle and monitors keeping watch of the shuttle. Next, there was an exhibit on specific events like sleeping and eating which documented the whole process and tools needed. Lastly, we went on a simulation ride that emulated the process of a takeoff in a rocket.

The control station

After we got back, we realized that we were going to go over space later in the quarter but by then it was too late. Regardless, I believe we learned much about the relationship between Art and Robotics/Math. The process of bringing man to space truly is an art. Everything needs to be balanced properly or the mission can end in a disaster. Each piece of the shuttle is completely thought out and cared for. Every scenario is pondered upon and a solution to every possible mistake is formed. The laws of physics and math can be used so that the scientists and engineers know exactly where the shuttle will be even years from now. Most of the systems are automated to keep the astronauts safe and comfortable. Space travel is an art that will open the universe up to mankind.

I wholly suggest going to the California Space Center to visit this exhibit. However, I do suggest going later in the quarter so you can completely appreciate what is going on with Professor Vensa's lectures in mind. The price is all right. Parking by itself is 12 dollars while a ticket to see the Endeavour is only 2-3 dollars so the more people you go with the better! It was honestly a great experience and everyone should see the strenuous process it takes to get into space.

Sources:
(for the control station picture)
The Roar of Rockets in the Hills » Scienceline. Scienceline, 25 Aug. 2017, scienceline.org/2017/07/roar-rockets-hills/.

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