A solid rocket booster can be seen falling away from the space shuttle Atlantis as the spacecraft heads toward its planned rendezvous with the International Space Station. This is a screen capture from a camera mounted on the orbiter's external fuel tank.
Last night, the Atlantis and its crew of seven lifted off from a rare and picture-perfect evening launch. The 11-day mission carries the shuttle program's largest payload ever, critical components for the slightly more than half-built $100 billion orbital research outpost. This morning, the astronauts are reviewing a small exposed area in the thermal blankets, which, hopefully will not be a problem. If you missed last night's spectacular launch, a few photos below.
It's been an interesting two weeks for NASA and the space program. Late last week, its administrator told reporters global warming may not be worth addressing. On Thursday, congressmen from both sides of the aisle criticized the space agency's inspector general for his lack of oversight. Despite the obvious politicization of the space agency, it is difficult not to be thrilled when watching a space launch. Feels like a kid once again.
More photos and video at NASA.
Lawmakers Want NASA Official to Resign [ABC News]
Space Shuttle Lifts Off on Construction Mission [CNET]
Some Background ...
NASA Says Global Warming "Not a Problem" [R20]
White House Pressures Scientists [R20]
Rod - i grew up in florida during the apollo years space was all the rage, and yes despite the fact we had fruit trees in the backyard I had to have Tang. I miss being that innocent and looking up to the sky for inspiration.
Posted by: Bill | 09 June 2007 at 23:45