KSC Medical Education Program |
|
| Contact Us Medical Education (321) 867-7462 |
|
The Kennedy Space Center is located in East Central Florida, in Brevard County. We are an hour to an hour and a half from Orlando, an hour from Melbourne, and an hour or so from Daytona Beach. Brevard County is a small but growing county with many things to offer:
Though Brevard County (the Space Coast) has a lot to offer our close proximity to other popular Florida destinations allows easy accessibility to these areas. See the websites on the sidebar for more area information.
What is the closest airport to KSC?
The closest airport is Orlando International. There are airports in Melbourne and Daytona Beach but you tend to be able to have more selection in airline availability and flights at Orlando. It is also very easy to get to the Space Coast from the airport.
Where do you recommend we stay while in the area?
Most clerks enjoy staying in Cocoa Beach because of the proximity to the ocean. Some who are from a coastal town may prefer staying inland on the river in Merritt Island, Titusville or Port St. John. We do not recommend staying in Orlando because of the long commute that would be required every day. So you can see there are several areas to stay in and each has their benefits.
How do we know where to stay?
We have a limited housing list that will be sent to you after you are accepted. There are plenty of lodging options and possibilities on the internet by looking up realtors or individuals that have rental properties. The average price of area accommodations range from $500 to $1200 per month.
Why would or do I have to rent a car?
If you have to travel a long distance or are from out of the country you may need to rent a car. For International clerks this may be a huge expense, especially if you are under 25. There is no effective public transportation to get you to where you need to come each morning.
What if I can't afford a rental car? What options are there?
If you can't afford to rent a car, you have several options.
Airport Shuttles - To get from the airport there are several shuttles that will bring you to your local residence. This is just one that clerks have used (Cocoa Beach Shuttle for around $70, can be found on the internet), there are several companies. Some clerks have taken the shuttle to Cocoa Beach to rent a car since at times rental cars can be less expensive if rented away from the airport.
Van Pools - These are vans driven by a KSC employee who pick up 10 to 16 other employees at set locations every morning. There are multiple locations for pick up. This information changes frequently; you will be given this information if requested upon acceptance.
Ride sharing - You can share the expense and vehicles if you team up with the clerks rotating with you. Once accepted, if requested, you will be given contact information for the other clerks and you can work out transportation needs.
Will I receive a stipend or any salary while attending this rotation?
No, all expenses for travel, housing, transportation and any other expenses you accrue are your responsibility. There are no fees due to the education program to attend this rotation. There is no application or processing fees.
How much money will I need to expect to spend?
Airfare - Varies depending on originating point.
Housing - $500 to $1200.
Transportation - Rental car $ 250 to $550 for 4 weeks. Van pool around $35 per week. Ride sharing cost will vary. The usual payment is enough to cover gas costs.
Food - Will vary depending if you are cooking or bringing in food. The average center cafeteria costs are $3.00 for breakfast and $6.00 to 10 for lunch.
Are there any grants available?
There are not grants available through the KSC Medical Education Program, however, you may get a sponsor or grant from many sources. For Canadians the Canadian Space Agency sponsors a competition and sends candidates to us. In the United Kingdom, the Centre for Altitude, Space, and Extreme environment medicine (CASE) does the same for UK candidates. You may be able to get your University, a Professional Organization or a private donor to help support your expenses.