Good morning, Melbourne.

Steve Wilson interviewed former NASA astronaut Col. Brian Duffy at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, where the retired pilot recalled flying four shuttle missions (Atlantis, Endeavor, and Discovery) and his deep connection to Florida.

Florida students will have varied spring break dates with some starting as early as March 9 and others waiting until April; in Brevard County, break is scheduled for March 23-27, giving local schools a timely pause before the academic year ends.

Brevard Public Schools has released its 2026 graduation schedule with ceremonies set to begin May 20 and continue through May 27 across the county, including an event at Melbourne High School on May 22 at Tom McIntyre Stadium.

A cold front is driving record low temperatures across Florida with forecast later Tuesday indicating Melbourne may break cold records amid drought-driven wildfire warnings (and even iguanas are affected by the chill), as warmer conditions are predicted mid-week.

NASA will receive scientific samples and hardware when the SpaceX Dragon departs the ISS on Thursday, Feb.

26 at 12:05 p.m. PST and splashes down off the California coast at 11:44 p.m. PST, offering insights to support future space exploration & research.

NASA will roll the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft off the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center for Artemis II today (Tuesday, Feb.

24) pending weather. Engineering teams are addressing helium flow issues and planning the 4-mile trek back to the Vehicle Assembly Building.

Patients undergoing a cardiac MRI at Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center receive clear, detailed heart images as specialists review the scans in real time.

The advanced procedure helps doctors decide on treatments for complex conditions (a service attracting referrals from across Florida).

Melbourne Airport will raze old hangars to build a new rental car zone that frees up 350 public parking spaces near the terminal.

The project is scheduled to begin soon to ease parking for travelers.

Voters can choose the PuroClean of Melbourne Girls Athlete of the Week from nominees who shined from Feb.

16 to 21 at 321preps.com or floridatoday.com. Voting remains open until noon on Thursday, Feb. 26 (refresh the page if the ballot is not visible).

Voting for the PuroClean of Melbourne Boys Athlete of the Week remains open until noon on Thursday, Feb.

26 at 321preps.com and floridatoday.com. The ballot features nominees based on performances from Feb. 16-21 and includes athletes from baseball, wrestling, track and soccer.

Modern Calligraphy Workshop at 905 Cafe

2:30-4 p.m. — 905 Cafe — Cost varies — Dive into the art of beautiful lettering in a fun and creative afternoon.

Bricks & Brews

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Wonder Waffel Melbourne — Food and drink available — A relaxed evening building with LEGO in a social setting for adults.

Ladies’ Sip and Dip Party

3:30-5 p.m. — Wickham Park — Bring your own food and drink — A casual gathering for women to connect and enjoy friendly conversation over shared dips.

South Beaches Concert Series

6-9 p.m. — Nancy Higgs Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music by Hot Pink and local food trucks at this community concert.

St. Patrick's Day Party

6-9 p.m. — Melbourne Ballroom — $10 entry — Celebrate with a high-energy dance party featuring DJ Drift and a chance to win prizes for the best themed outfit.

St. Patrick's Day Celebration with John McDonald and the Irish Luck Quartet

6-10 p.m. — Meg O'Malley's Restaurant & Irish Pub — Free entry — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with live music and festive fun at a local favorite.

Third Thursdays

5-8 p.m. — The Avenue Viera — Free entry — Enjoy live music and complimentary treats in a family-friendly atmosphere at Central Park.

Space Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

5 PM – 11 PM — Space Coast Daily Park — Tickets $50-70 — Experience breathtaking balloon rides along with a dazzling laser show and live music.

Downtown Melbourne Farmers Market

10 AM – 2 PM — Riverview Park — Free entry — Explore local fresh foods and baked goods from certified local growers.