Sign up for update emails at the official NASA website. You will get notification about when to apply for the shuttle launch tickets. The launches are so popular now, because the program is winding down, that NASA holds random drawings for permission to buy launch packages.
Send in an email after NASA announces the drawing is open. Have other members in your party send in an email, as well -- but only those who will be traveling with you. The winning ticket holder must be present to buy the launch package.
Buy your tickets -- if you are one of the lottery winners -- through the NASA Visitor Complex website.
Arrive at the NASA complex at or before the time on your ticket. You will be allowed to bring almost anything you can carry, such as folding chairs and camera tripods. NASA provides buses to drive ticketed viewers to the causeway for the launch itself.
Research your shuttle viewing spot well ahead of the scheduled launch date. There are a number of spots in Titusville and surrounding that have good views of the shuttle launches. Pick a first choice and a backup area, just in case.
Leave your hotel in time to get to the viewing areas early. City officials estimated that about a half-million people visited for the shuttle takeoff in February 2011, so an early start is imperative. Arrive at your destination no later than six hours before the launch is scheduled.
Bring folding chairs, blankets, books, video games, food and water -- and anything else that will help pass the time. The crowds get exponentially larger as launch time nears. If you leave a good spot two or three hours before launch, you will never get it back again. Stake out your viewing area and always leave at least one person there to save your place.
Take your time and be patient when the launch is over. Don't be in a hurry to get back to your room, as it will be next to impossible. The crowd often takes six hours or more to clear out after a launch. Sit down, relax and enjoy the atmosphere, remembering that you are witnessing American history in the making.
