Exp. 31 Flight Engineer @AstroAcaba shares some thoughts about his launch to the #ISS in his latest #spaceblog. http://bit.ly/JSWkG2
Before I Go, Gratitude
Everything is progressing well towards our launch on May 15 at 09:01 am local time in Kazakhstan.� We had a chance to see our vehicle one last time, now all packed with the cargo we will take with us to the International Space Station.� She looks good and is ready for us.� The fully assembled vehicle has been transferred by train and with a well rehearsed and proven procedure, has been placed in its final position on the launch pad.���
People ask what does one do a few days before launch?� There are of course a few briefings, but they are kept to a minimum.� We discuss the details of our launch and rendezvous with the ISS and the current status of the ISS, if any changes have occurred while we have been in Baikonur.� Some time is set aside to meet with our respective management representatives.� The work that is done to put together a successful mission is enormous.� It is with great appreciation that we are allowed to have brief contact with immediate family members.� None of us would be where we are without the love and support of our families.� All of the Astronauts and Cosmonauts know that the stress of a launch is much more difficult for them.� We are trained, know what to expect, and get to experience the unforgettable thrill of a launch to space.� We thank them for their support and sacrifices.� No special requests for meals are made.� We are well fed in Baikonur within their regular menu and we couldn�t ask for more.� As I think about it, the more you can keep a normal routine leading up to an important event, the more relaxed one feels.� We will be getting up around midnight the evening before launch, so the day before is short as we will try to get some sleep after lunch.� As a crew, we are well rested and ready.
I look forward to sharing our story with you with future blogs from The Great Outer Space.