I think that we are so used to the shuttle stuff here that it becomes common place. My favorite part is the sonic booms (2) when it is coming in for a landing. Car alarms go off, dogs barking, tourists think the world is ending - its great. If you ever get the chance to be on the water to watch a launch it is a must. Even though you are a few miles away, all the water starts to vibrate & the boat shakes ... very cool. Fun from land too, but I like the water best. I watched one of the last night launches from the cockpit of my XF - magical!!