Kennedy Orientation Home   Welcome to NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC), where our team launches the dream of exploring our universe. Image at left: Official portrait of William (Bill) W. Parsons, the director of the NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Credit: NASA/KSC KSC is the starting point for America's human space flights. On July 16, 1969, the eyes of the world were on the coast of Florida as the three astronauts of Apollo 11 began their journey to the Moon. Soon, the world's attention will once again return to Kennedy Space Center as NASA returns to the heavens. It is from KSC that NASA sends astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). Each element is processed at KSC before being delivered and attached to the ISS. The International Space Station is a collaborative science lab that benefits mankind on Earth and helps us understand our world and the worlds around us. The future of NASA is that of exploration and discovery. Kennedy Space Center will support our nation's space goals by continuing its legacy as the foremost launch facility in the world. The Crew Exploration Vehicle, NASA's next generation of manned spacecraft, will take our astronauts to the International Space Station and onward into the reaches of our Solar System. In addition to supporting human space flight, KSC also coordinates all launches of NASA payloads on expendable launch vehicles, whether those launches take place at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, or other launch sites. The ELV program is launching a growing number of satellites and probes that are answering questions and giving data to scientists and researchers that are unlocking the secrets of the universe. These satellites also are useful in predicting weather, monitoring our natural resources and investigating planets and other heavenly bodies, such as asteroids and comets. KSC has established itself for more than 40 years as a world-class Spaceport Technology Center. We have much to contribute to the development of future launch vehicles that will bring people and supplies to the ISS and to manned research facilities throughout the Solar System. As you navigate this site, you'll enjoy discovering details about our exciting space program and appreciate how it adds to your life and the lives of people across the world. These contributions increase scientific knowledge and continue to generate spin-off technology. Examples include smoke detectors, pacemakers, ultrasound scanners, laser surgery, fire retardant materials and extended weather forecasting.