@michelekurlan2580

2 weeks ago

Drove up to Lompoc from NW Ventura County to see yesterday's launch. Of course,was looking for best vista point. There were a number of spots recommended by locals. I chose Astronaut Memorial at Ken-Adam Park(campground) adjacent to Hancock college. Unlike Ocean Blvd. It is set on a hill overlooking the entire valley. Magnificent beauty. View of the launchpad was obstructed by a hill but could see the action once the ship took off, yet it appeared quite small from where i was. Literally like a 1/4" flare. Now, from the beach in La Conchita(unincorporated area approx. 15 miles north of Ventura proper) it looks like 1/8" flare. I do not understand the "physics" of this but certainly expected it to appear much larger being 70+ miles closer to Vandenberg. The delayed sounds as it ascended and the double sonic boom when it landed were awesome. The way the booms echoed thruout the valley and thru my body. Next time i may try Ocean Blvd. This turned out to be the charm as I have made 2 other trips up to Lompoc only for the flights to be cancelled. It was just me and another person on that hill and he introduced himself to be the founder and CEO ,Steven Franck of a company called Small Blue Dot, Inc in Lompoc and was surveying the area as his company has been petitioning to purchase the park and build a space aged, space themed compound up there. Apparently the final decision will be that of the voters as it will be on the Nov.2024 ballot. There is mixed speculation about converting the land and how it may or may not fare for the community (and ecosystem)and plenty of press. We as humans tend to be uncomfortable with change, however, like any natural law, bad or good, in nature and/or business/technology ,inclusive or exclusive, change is imminent. Also, "money talks." I guess we can call that one a manmade "natural law."🙄 I am glad to have been able to witness this flight from such a naturally beautiful vista point sans crowds and an entrance fee. Its an awesome project plan, the entrepreneurial spirit and credentials behind such innovations is what gets things done, think Elon Musk, still, there's a part of me that says keep the land natural and pristine. Cannot "buy" that back. Here is the address to the website, they may even be looking for funders for this and other projects: www.palebluedotventures.com Tell Steven Michele sent you

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