Atlantis STS-135

My passion for space, nurtured since the late 1960s by watching the Apollo missions as a kid, sitting on the floor of the "Nitty Gritty" at Pope, AFB, in North Carolina, is a testament to the enduring wonder and inspiration that space exploration can evoke. It's a passion that has not only stayed with me but has also evolved and deepened over time.

The end of the Space Shuttle program marked the closing of a significant chapter in human space exploration. While it may evoke sadness for the conclusion of an era, it also carries with it the promise of a new era of exploration beyond our own solar system. This sense of hope and optimism for the future of space exploration is a common sentiment shared by many who have been captivated by the wonders of the cosmos.

My video tribute to NASA and the 30-year Space Shuttle program serves as a heartfelt homage to the remarkable human achievements in space during that era. It's a celebration of the dedication, innovation, and courage of those who ventured beyond our planet's boundaries and a reminder of the boundless possibilities that lie ahead in the cosmos. I hope my passion for space shines through in my work, inspiring others to share in the awe and excitement of exploring the final frontier.

Client: Personal
Date: 07.20.2011
Tools: Adobe Premiere Pro, Photoshop


The Process

On November 14, 1969, at 11:22 am EST Apollo 12 launched from Cape Kennedy, into a cloudy rain-swept sky. From that memorable moment in front of a black and white TV at Pope AFB, my fascination with astronauts and space took root and continued to grow. My dedication to following NASA's endeavors, from the Apollo program through the Space Shuttle era and beyond, and unwavering enthusiasm for space exploration continues today. Even with the responsibilities of adulthood, marriage, and parenthood, my passion for space has remained a core part of my identity. It's a passion I've nurtured and shared with my sons, fostering the hope that they, too, will develop a deep interest in the wonders of the cosmos. The ongoing unmanned missions and the exciting prospects for Mars exploration exemplify the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. The dream of discovering new frontiers and unlocking the mysteries of the universe continues to inspire you and countless others who share my passion for space. It's a testament to the enduring human spirit of curiosity and exploration. After Curiousity touched down in a controlled landing on the martian surface last year, NASA administrator Charles Bolden said that, the United States still dreams of flying astronauts to the red planet. “President Obama has laid out a bold vision for sending humans to Mars in the mid-2030s, and Curiosity’s landing marks a significant step toward achieving this goal,” he said.
monitors process

menu process
The conclusion of the Space Shuttle program with Atlantis in July 2011 marked the end of a remarkable era in human space exploration. These shuttles were symbols of ingenuity and human achievement, and they played a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of space. Knowing that STS-135 now resides in the Visitors Center at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida makes the prospect of visiting with my boys incredibly exciting. It's a chance to share firsthand the awe and inspiration that these magnificent spacecraft embody.

While the end of the shuttle program may bring a sense of sadness, it still fills me with hope for the future. The closing of one chapter often paves the way for the beginning of another, and space exploration is no exception. The ongoing endeavors, including plans for missions to Mars and beyond, are a testament to our continued commitment to explore the cosmos and push the boundaries of human knowledge and achievement.

My video tribute to NASA and the 30-year Space Shuttle program beautifully encapsulates the legacy of these incredible spacecraft and the collective human effort that made them possible. It's a celebration of human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration, a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.


monitors process

menu process
Using Adobe Premiere to piece together a video about Atlantis and its final mission was an ambitious and rewarding undertaking. Leveraging NASA's HD raw video footage allowed me to create a visually stunning and engaging story. As I delved deeper into the world of video editing, I incorporated various elements, including titles, music, and transitions, to craft a compelling narrative.

Sharing my work on YouTube and seeking feedback from colleagues and friends was a means to receive constructive criticism, especially regarding sound levels, transitions, and storytelling. It also helped me refine my skills and produce a more polished final product.

The decision to expand the project and continue covering Atlantis' mission until its conclusion was a creative decision. By breaking the video into sections and focusing on different aspects of the mission, from launch to docking with the ISS to Atlantis' departure, allowed me to capture the full scope of this historic event.

The addition of a concluding section that delved into the legacy of Atlantis and the Space Shuttle program, featuring interviews with NASA staff and discussions about the future of space exploration, was also a fitting way to provide closure to the video.

In the end, my project is not just about learning a new skill but also about paying tribute to the astronauts and the incredible achievements of NASA's space program. It's my way to preserve the history of human space exploration for future generations.


monitors process

menu process


Creating a full-length HD DVD with a menu using Adobe Encore to complement your Premiere project was another way to try and master the various components of the Adobe Creative Suite.

The menu I designed in Photoshop and imported into Encore adds a polished and professional touch to the DVD. While it may not have the same level of intricate animation as commercial DVDs, the functionality and straightforwardness of my menu make it accessible and user-friendly.
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