Space Conch

It was a surprise to most locals, no doubt about it, but the announcement did not come as a surprise to the main participant in the bold new journey planned by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The photo isn't the official picture commemorating the announcement, it's just a Key West way of poking fun at the surprise bound to be generated by the news issued this day, this special day in Key West. The Southernmost City is to e represented on NASA's newest and most audacious scientific voyage into space. There will be a Conch flying to Mars: The announcement of the selection of a Conch to participate in the first manned flight to another planet was viewed as just another step for the Conch Republic, taking it's place in the world of science and discovery."This is a great day for Key West, and a huge loss for this Department," said Chief Donie Lee as Noel announced his departure from KWPD on April 1st 2009 for the Mars training station on Culebra near Puerto Rico."Sorry to see you going" was his friend and colleague, Diggy's sentiment (Noel's partner Matt is seen at the rear in the photo above) when he presented Noel with a token of our appreciation in the form of the Flag. "Culebra is part of the US, just as the corner of Mars you step on will be," he said, handing over the April First cake. Noel himself was unable to contain his excitement at the announcement of his selection as part of the Mars Explorer Team, "I'm sorry I'll be leaving Matt behind," he said, "but our separation is for a good cause." Matt was unavailable for comment.Noel is already on his way to Culebra to practice space walking and learning how to remain unconscious in zero gravity in preparation for the three year trip to Mars. "April First," he said, " a great day for Key West and America, a great tradition refreshed." And with that- poof!-he was gone.