1. NASA’s “Rubber Room”: Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39
The rubber room is essentially a bunker hidden under the launch pad. In case of disaster, the crew has to book it to Level A inside the mobile launch platform (the support for the Saturn V). Members then slide 60 meters assisted by a sprinkler in a hatch (reduces friction to help slide) to the bunker. Moreover, there is a blast room within the rubber room. This room is built to withstand 500 psi of blast pressure—there are even springs under the ground to help deal with oscillations.
In order to account for CO2 levels in a sealed bunker, NASA implemented a CO2 scrubber that filtered the ambient air for CO2. Moreover, oxygen candles could produce 6 hours of oxygen per person. Their rations even accounted for cigarettes for the crew—probably soon to be updated with ELFBAR or something FDA-approved.
2. SOON TO BE: Starbase, TX
This area in Texas, formerly known as Boca Chica Village, serves as a trophy case for Starship prototypes. It is honestly a dope site that gets you closer to seeing how rockets are built than anywhere else. And, to spice it up even more, there’s a tiki bar with a professional mixologist (the guy can make some cosmic drinks if you know what I mean).
Saying you’re from “Starbase, Texas” makes me feel like we’re already in an Asimov dystopia.
3. Boeing Aircraft Factory: Everett, Washington
For you airplane lovers or frequent travelers, this site is fascinating. The tour is $15 for adults and $8 for children. You get to see the production line of 747s, the 787 Dreamliner, and more. On top of all this, they also have an aviation museum where you can see conceptual aircraft and different components broken down.
If aircraft are more your speed than rockets, this site is a gold mine.
4. Edwards Air Force Base: Edwards, California
This base is uniquely located in California and situated for cat’s pajamas crossover events. For example, Top Gun fans know that the Lockheed Martin Darkstar debuted at Edwards’ open house, air show, and STEM Expo. Any open house opportunity is worth going to with valid ID and approval because this base really is the center of aerospace testing (F-35, T-7A Red Hawk, etc).
5. Personal take: DFW Founder’s Plaza
From experience, this site is amazing to make memories. You can take ANYONE here, nerd out, and the beautiful view will take care of the rest. DFW Founder’s Plaza is a lookout located right outside the DFW airport where you can watch American, Delta, Spirit, and more fly all their liveries.
There’s a fun little fountain for kids and the location is centered amongst amazing food spots for after you see your 42069th yellow spirit aircraft.
“It is a big and beautiful world. Most of us live and die in the same corner where we were born and never get to see any of it. I don’t want to be most of us.”
Oberyn Martell, Game of Thrones
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