First Flight? Let me expand on my question, when my rocket is on the pad for my L1 certification will it attract extra attention? Makes me a little nervous thinking people will gather to see what happens.
In all actuality, from my experience, the more eyes the better.
When all goes well, all the more praise for a job well done. And the more people interested in your bird, and it's flight and recovery characteristics.
When things go awry, you get a better balance of opinion as to what most likely caused the mishap; so as to be able to overcome it in the future.
Launch enough times, and you will have failures. As long as you have put in the proper time and effort to research and develop that which you intend to safely fly, people usually don't hold the little hiccups against you. And are more that happy to help fill in the gaps in your knowledge. At least that's been the case with those with whom I've flown.
So there really isn't any reason to fret too much about it. "I need to remind myself of that on nights before a launch. Maybe I'd be able to get in a couple hours of sleep." :wink:
As to your original post: I'm in agreement with McKailas Dad. If you know a flight is going up, take the time to watch it. The better part of the fun I have at launches is watching what others have concocted. Also, God forbid you do hear "Heads Up", you'll already be ahead of the curve.
You should also listen for the "Range is Safe/Pads are Safe" command. When you bring your bird up to the flight line, it never hurts to ask the LCO for permission to approach the pad. But if you've already cleared your flight with the RSO and LCO has just called "Range is Safe" or "Pads are Safe" make your presence known, get the go ahead, and head to your pad. The sooner you start setting up, the less rushed you'll feel as others set up around you.
And on that note. Don't get into a rush. Most likely when the people around you finish up, they'll hang around at the pad. This may be a good time to get input from those around that are already set for launch. Besides, most of the best small talk can be had at the pads.
Best wishes toward a successful launch and recovery. And most of all. Enjoy, what ever may come of it.
