john hawks weblog

paleoanthropology, genetics and evolution

Mailbag: Saturn V remembrance

Thu, 2009-07-30 14:56 -- John Hawks

Thanks for your post on the Saturn V. I remember watching the first shuttle
launch, and being surprised at how it jumped off the pad. I had become used
to the slow Saturn V launches, and forgot how fast these rockets can rise.
If I remember properly, the craft was bolted to the pad, and five second
after ignition, explosives would blow the bolts away, freeing the rocket to
take off. It was such a thrilling experience to watch.

Take care,

Thanks much; what a wonderful experience!

Tags: 
space

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