Our visit to the Kennedy Space Center was wonderous, besides the rush of memories from my youth about the Apollo moon missions, there was an inspiring air to all things. Many of us may have doubted how much the space program actually benefits our country, but after one day here there is little doubt left that the benefit is for all mankind. Here you are reminded that the quest for space is more a quest for knowledge and discovery and that the mission is not a military one. The benefits that NASA has brought to human life as a whole is showcased here along with a passionate group of men and women that never stop reaching for what is yet to come. The astronauts you may get to meet are intelligent, energetic and ready to face the next challenge unfettered by the fear and danger those missions may hold. The history you see here reinforces their tireless efforts for excellence in everything they do, be it the completion of the International Space Station or returning to the Moon. There on the surface of our closest heavenly neighbor they plan to step boldly towards the Red Planet and land a manned mission to Mars. When you look at all they have achieved up until now against extraordinary odds, their enthusiasm is both admirable and contagious. (thanks to timmy, for writing this little opening!!)