THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

PATRICK SWAYZE PASSES AT AGE 57 AFTER BATTLING CANCER. R.I.P. PATRICK SWAYZE

LOS ANGELES – Patrick Swayze has died after a nearly two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Swayze's publicist Annett Wolf says the 57-year-old "Dirty Dancing" actor died Monday with family at his side. He came forward about his illness last spring, but continued working as he underwent treatments.

It was 1987 when Swayze became a star with his performance in "Dirty Dancing," a coming-of-age story set in a Catskills resort. The 1990 film "Ghost" cemented his status as a screen favorite.

Swayze played a murdered man trying to communicate with his fiancee through a spirit played by Whoopi Goldberg.

He kept on working even after it was disclosed in March 2008 that he had a particularly deadly form of cancer. He starred in "The Beast," an A&E drama series, and said he and his wife were working on a memoir.





http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090915/ap_en_ot/us_obit_swayze_1

SPACE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY LANDING@ EDWARDS AFBASE,CALIFORNIA @ 8:53PM, 9-11-2009

SPACE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY STS-128 TO LAND SEPTEMBER 11, 2009 AT
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE @ 8:53PM.

STS-128 Landing Blog SEE DETAILS BELOW PICTURES.
Space shuttle Discovery is scheduled to land at 8:53 p.m. at the shuttle's backup landing site at Edwards Air Force Base in California. Both landing opportunities at the shuttle's home port at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida were waved off due to weather.
Landing coverage is scheduled to begin at 3:45 p.m. The landing blog is brought to you by STS-128 Blogger Anna Heiney and originates from the NASA News Center at Kennedy.



























Time to touchdown 31 minutes. All of Discovery's systems are in good shape, and the runway approach is still under debate in mission control. With the deorbit burn complete, Sturckow and Ford next will turn Discovery into entry position, facing forward and angled slightly to allow the orbiter's underside to absorb the heat of re-entry.
It's a gorgeous afternoon at Edwards Air Force Base, according to mission control. Light winds, scattered clouds and very calm conditions will greet Discovery when it touches down on the high desert runway at 8:53 p.m
The burn is set to begin 7:47 p.m
Flight controllers are still discussing runway selection options based on winds at Edwards, but Discovery and crew are go to begin their ride home in about 36 minutes
Weather still is cooperating at the Southern California landing site. The Spaceflight Meteorology Group is evaluating the winds, and astronaut Scott Altman has been flying approaches to Runway 22 in the Shuttle Training Aircraft to judge how Discovery will handle the local conditions during landing. But overall, conditions are favorable for touchdown tonight at 8:53 p.m
The 12-inch Disney/Pixar action figure has been in space for more than a year, with most of that time spent aboard the International Space Station. He launched aboard Discovery in May 2008 along with the STS-124 crew.

Lightyear's adventure was part of NASA's Toys in Space project. In this case, it's a joint education initiative between NASA and Disney Parks to encourage students to pursue studies in science, technology and mathematics.
Deorbit targets have been loaded into Discovery's onboard computers and deorbit preparations continue smoothly today. Again, that burn is scheduled for 7:47 p.m
Astronauts also transferred seven-and-a-half tons of equipment to the station from the Leonardo supply module, including science and storage racks, a new sleeping compartment, an air purification system and a new treadmill. The Combined Operational Load Bearing External Resistance Treadmill, or COLBERT, is named after TV show host Stephen Colbert
Stay with NASA's Landing Blog as the seven astronauts aboard Discovery embark on the journey home

Wheelstop: STS-128 is Complete
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:55:30 PM EDT


Discovery is safely on the ground at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

Welcoming his colleagues back to Earth, CAPCOM Eric Boe congratulated the crew on their mission to step up the science on the International Space Station.

Next, the landing convoy will swarm the runway and surround Discovery as landing support personnel begin their work. It will take some time for the astronauts on board to finish their work, remove their suits and exit the orbiter to begin a round of preliminary medical checks.


Nose Gear Touchdown
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:53:42 PM EDT


All of Discovery's landing-gear tires are firmly on the ground as the shuttle finishes its roll down the three-mile-long concrete Runway 22.


Main Gear Touchdown
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:53:34 PM EDT


Discovery is speeding down Runway 22 following touchdown just moments ago at Edwards Air Force Base in California. After 5.7 million miles and 219 orbits, Discovery and crew are home.



Landing Gear Down and Locked
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:53:23 PM EDT


Only seconds until landing. Pilot Rick Sturckow has flared up Discovery's nose and Pilot Kevin Ford has deployed the shuttle's main and nose landing gear. Stand by for touchdown.


Sturkow Guides Discovery Around Heading Alignment Circle
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:50:53 PM EDT


To bring Discovery in line with the runway, Commander Sturckow is flying the shuttle through a sweeping, 213-degree overhead right-hand turn around the heading alignment circle. On final approach, Discovery will descend at an angle seven times steeper than that of a commercial airliner.


Sonic Booms Rattle the California Coast
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:50:17 PM EDT


The shuttle's trademark twin sonic booms just echoed across Edwards Air Force Base and the surrounding area, heralding space shuttle Discovery's arrival.


Air Data Probes Deployed
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:46:22 PM EDT


Two air-data probes have been released from Discovery's forward fuselage. They'll measure air pressure and temperature and feed that information to the onboard computer to use in guidance and steering.


10 minutes
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:44:08 PM EDT


Traveling seven times the speed of sound, Discovery is approaching the west coast of California.


GPS Navigation Aids Working
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:42:21 PM EDT


Discovery's Global Positioning System navigation aids are processing data perfectly. The shuttle is 33 miles in altitude and descending at a rate of 159 feet per second.


Landing Status
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:36:25 PM EDT


Now about 18 minutes to landing, Discovery is traveling almost 14,000 miles per hour. Range to touchdown 1,560 miles.


Discovery Rolls to the Left
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:29:40 PM EDT


Discovery is beginning its roll schedule with a 78-degree roll to the left designed to bleed off excess energy and slow the orbiter further. During the next several minutes, three roll reversals will follow, completing the roll schedule. Discovery's systems are performing perfectly.


Discovery Reaches Entry Interface
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:23:03 PM EDT


Discovery is beginning to encounter the first traces of Earth's atmosphere as it glides at an altitude of about 67 statute miles. About 4700 miles to touchdown. As the atmospheric pressure increases, the orbiter's aerosurfaces -- the wing elevons, body flap and rudder speed brake -- will take over steering functions.

Time to touchdown 31 minutes. All of Discovery's systems are in good shape, and the runway approach is still under debate in mission control.


Landing Update
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:20:31 PM EDT


Discovery now is traveling at an altitude of 95 statute miles. Range to touchdown 5,800 miles.



Discovery Approaching Entry Interface
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:18:08 PM EDT


Now flying southeast of New Zealand, Discovery is about to begin a southwest-to-northeast path across the Pacific Ocean as it approaches landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California at 8:53 p.m. Discovery will begin to encounter the effects of the atmosphere in about five minutes, a point called "entry interface."


Two Remaining APUs Activated
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:10:42 PM EDT


Pilot Kevin Ford has activated Discovery's two remaining auxiliary power units. All three of Discovery's APUs are up and running.


Forward Reaction Control System Emptied
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:07:48 PM EDT


According to plan, the remaining propellant has been dumped from Discovery's forward reaction control system jets.


STS-128 to be the 54th Shuttle Landing for Edwards
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:02:27 PM EDT


Today's space shuttle landing will be the 54th at Edwards Air Force Base. The last time Discovery landed at Edwards was Aug. 9, 2005 at the conclusion of STS-114, NASA's Return to Flight mission.


Less Than an Hour to Touchdown
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:00:40 PM EDT


Weather and winds are still being evaluated, and there's a possibility mission control will choose to change Discovery's approach to the runway. That's not unusual; Commander Sturckow would just need to reload the landing targets into the onboard computer. Now 22 minutes from entry interface and 54 minutes from touchdown. Everything looks fine aboard Discovery as it flies over the southern Indian Ocean.


Burn Complete: Discovery Officially Begins the Trip Home
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:51:17 PM EDT


Mission control confirms a good deorbit burn. Space shuttle Discovery and the seven astronauts on board are on their way to a landing at Edwards Air Force Base in the California high desert. Touchdown is scheduled for 8:53 p.m.

With the deorbit burn complete, Sturckow and Ford next will turn Discovery into entry position, facing forward and angled slightly to allow the orbiter's underside to absorb the heat of re-entry.


Deorbit Burn Begins
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:48:03 PM EDT


Discovery's orbital maneuvering system engines are firing now. This two-minute, 35-second deorbit burn will slow the orbiter's forward speed by about 267 feet per second, enough to begin its descent through the atmosphere.


Less Than Three Minutes to Go
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:45:22 PM EDT


Less than three minutes remain until Discovery's two orbital maneuvering system engines ignite for the deorbit burn. The engines are armed.


One APU Activated
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:44:14 PM EDT


Pilot Kevin Ford has activated one of Discovery's three auxiliary power units to ensure at least one operating unit for entry. The others will be activated after the deorbit burn. The APUs provide hydraulic pressure to Discovery's aerosurfaces, landing gear, main landing gear brakes and nose wheel steering.

It's a gorgeous afternoon at Edwards Air Force Base, according to mission control. Light winds, scattered clouds and very calm conditions will greet Discovery when it touches down on the high desert runway at 8:53 p.m., 5:53 p.m. Pacific time.


10 Minutes Until the Deorbit Burn
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:38:10 PM EDT


Discovery's deorbit burn will begin at 7:47 p.m., 10 minutes from now.


Landing Convoy on Standby
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:35:54 PM EDT


With Discovery and its seven astronauts on their way to Edwards, the landing convoy is moving into position. The convoy's specialized vehicles and units will line up at the runway, ready to approach the orbiter once it stops its long roll. Members of the landing convoy will safe the vehicle and help the crew out of the crew module and into their transport vehicle.


Discovery in Deorbit Burn Position
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:29:55 PM EDT


Space shuttle Discovery is in the deorbit burn position. At the time of the burn, the orbiter will be oriented upside down and backward with the its orbital maneuvering system engines facing in the direction of travel. The "retrograde" burn will effectively put the brakes on Discovery's forward momentum and begin its trek back to Earth.

The burn is set to begin 7:47 p.m.


Discovery is "Go" for the Deorbit Burn!
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:12:03 PM EDT


CAPCOM Eric Boe just informed the STS-128 crew members that they are "go" for the deorbit burn. Commander Sturckow and his crewmates are about to set out for home after nearly 14 days in space on a resupply mission to the International Space Station.

Flight controllers are still discussing runway selection options based on winds at Edwards, but Discovery and crew are go to begin their ride home in about 36 minutes.


Astronauts, Ground Teams Await Deorbit Burn Decision
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 07:05:13 PM EDT


In mission control, flight controllers have completed the steps in the deorbit checklist. The "go/no-go" decision for the deorbit burn is coming up. Weather at Edwards Air Force Base has stayed consistently favorable throughout the day, and Discovery and the astronauts are in great shape.


Deorbit Burn Less Than an Hour Away
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 06:50:10 PM EDT


Less than one hour to go until the scheduled deorbit burn to start space shuttle Discovery's descent to Edwards Air Force Base in California for touchdown at 8:53 p.m. The burn is planned for 7:47 p.m.


Strapping In for Landing
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 06:40:04 PM EDT


Discovery's astronauts now are fully suited and soon will begin strapping into their seats on the flight deck and middeck. Commander Sturckow will take Seat 1, in the front left of the flight deck, while Pilot Kevin Ford will be seated to Sturckow's right. Behind them on the flight deck are Mission Specialists Patrick Forrester and Jose Hernandez. On the middeck below, in Seats 5, 6 and 7, are Mission Specialists Danny Olivas, Kopra and Christer Fuglesang of Sweden, who represents the European Space Agency.


Crew Begins Fluid Loading
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 06:37:01 PM EDT


The astronauts have received the go-ahead to begin "fluid loading." Crew members are encouraged to drink about 40 ounces of water or other fluids to help them readjust to gravity after landing.

Weather still is cooperating at the Southern California landing site. The Spaceflight Meteorology Group is evaluating the winds, and astronaut Scott Altman has been flying approaches to Runway 22 in the Shuttle Training Aircraft to judge how Discovery will handle the local conditions during landing. But overall, conditions are favorable for touchdown tonight at 8:53 p.m.


Also Coming Home on Discovery: Buzz Lightyear
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 06:21:35 PM EDT


Buzz Lightyear is ready for his ride back to Earth.

The 12-inch Disney/Pixar action figure has been in space for more than a year, with most of that time spent aboard the International Space Station. He launched aboard Discovery in May 2008 along with the STS-124 crew.

Lightyear's adventure was part of NASA's Toys in Space project. In this case, it's a joint education initiative between NASA and Disney Parks to encourage students to pursue studies in science, technology and mathematics.


Astronauts Suiting Up
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 06:14:17 PM EDT


In space, Discovery's astronauts once again are climbing into their launch-and-entry suits. The bright-orange suit, helmet and gloves provide a safe cocoon of partial pressure and breathable air to the astronaut wearing the ensemble. Deorbit preparations continue to proceed easily toward landing at Edwards Air Force Base at 8:53 p.m. on orbit 219.


Astronaut Tim Kopra Returning from Space Station
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:38:35 PM EDT


Returning to Earth aboard space shuttle Discovery is astronaut Tim Kopra, who has spent 58 days in space since his July launch to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission. Kopra served as a station flight engineer with the Expedition 20 crew until his replacement, astronaut Nicole Stott, arrived at the station aboard Discovery almost two weeks ago.


Weather Still Looking Good at Edwards
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:10:58 PM EDT


Weather is observed and forecast "go" at Edwards Air Force Base. Discovery will be greeted by light winds and benign, calm conditions upon its arrival on Runway 22 at 8:53 p.m., one hour and 10 minutes before sunset.

Deorbit targets have been loaded into Discovery's onboard computers and deorbit preparations continue smoothly today. Again, that burn is scheduled for 7:47 p.m.


Resupply Mission Highlighted by Three Spacewalks
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:54:27 PM EDT


The STS-128 mission began with a flawless launch Aug. 28, just a few seconds before midnight. Discovery's flight capped a smooth prelaunch countdown and set the stage for a busy itinerary in orbit. With Commander Sturckow at the controls, Discovery docked with the International Space Station at 8:54 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30. During the mission's three spacewalks, astronauts replaced experiments outside the European Space Agency's Columbus laboratory, installed a new ammonia tank and removed a spent tank.

Astronauts also transferred seven-and-a-half tons of equipment to the station from the Leonardo supply module, including science and storage racks, a new sleeping compartment, an air purification system and a new treadmill. The Combined Operational Load Bearing External Resistance Treadmill, or COLBERT, is named after TV show host Stephen Colbert.


'Go' for Ops 3 Transition
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:36:21 PM EDT


Flight Director Richard Jones just polled his team and the Discovery astronauts have been given the "go" to transition the onboard computers to the deorbit and entry flight software package known as OPS 3. The payload bay doors are closed. Weather in the Mojave Desert continues to be favorable for landing, according to observations reported by astronaut Scott Altman, who continues to monitor weather at the landing site.


'Go' for Payload Bay Door Closing
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:15:04 PM EDT


Discovery's 60-foot-long payload bay doors soon will be closed in preparation for tonight's landing, safely sealing the Italian-built Leonardo supply module inside the bay. Once this deorbit prep milestone is out of the way, the crew will wait a while longer to begin suiting up and strapping in.


Flight Director Richard Jones Leads Today's Landing Effort
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:01:13 PM EDT


Led by Flight Director Richard Jones, flight controllers have been on console since 11 a.m. Today's spacecraft communicator, or CAPCOM, is astronaut Eric Boe. The weather flight director is Tony Ceccacci, and astronaut Chris Ferguson is serving as weather CAPCOM. In addition to the Houston-based Spaceflight Meteorology Group, additional observations are provided by astronaut Scott "Scooter" Altman, who is flying weather reconnaissance at Edwards using a T-38 training jet and the Shuttle Training Aircraft.


Space Shuttle Discovery to Land at Edwards Air Force Base
Fri, 11 Sep 2009 03:45:06 PM EDT


After two weeks in orbit, space shuttle Discovery and the STS-128 crew are set to land today at the shuttle's backup landing site at Edwards Air Force Base in California at 8:53 p.m., or 5:53 p.m. for those in the Pacific time zone. Unstable and uncooperative weather prevented Discovery's return to its home port at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during the past two days. Meanwhile, weather is perfect for landing today at Edwards.

Stay with NASA's Landing Blog as the seven astronauts aboard Discovery embark on the journey home

9-11 TRIBUTE TO ALL WHO LOST THEIR LIVES THAT DAY. NEVER FORGET 9-11

9/11 Memorial Tribute–”Only Time”


My prayers and thoughts are with all the families who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001, and, with all Americans who grieve again today in remembrance.

REMEMBERING 9-11-2001, NEVER FORGET 9-11, SEPTEMBER 11, 2009 MEMORIALS

http://www.jontzen.com/tribute.htm <-----THIS PAGE IS THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE PAGE ON THE NET WITH ALL THE 9-11 info.



My prayers and thoughts are with all the families who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001, and, with all Americans who grieve again today in remembrance.




God bless President Bush, and I thank him for inspiring and comforting me with these words, and for keeping me and my family safe for all the remainder of his term.



The President With A Bullhorn
by Conservative Pup on September 11, 2009



God bless President Bush, and I thank him for inspiring and comforting me with these words, and for keeping me and my family safe for all the remainder of his term.

I Say “NO” To Obama’s Hijacking Of 9/11

"When Obama is voted out of office in 2012 this needs to be resended. Obama did this as a slap in the face to President George W. Bush. At the same time he slapped the people of this country in the face and the people who lost folks in the horrfic attack on our country by a bunch of sicko Muslim terrorist ! People will not forget this Obama. You can bank of that ! Scumbag ! "

Obama and his socialist friends want to change 9/11 in all our psyches. Uncomfortable with “9/11″ being a day of remembering that we were attacked by evil men and ideology, and that 2996 people were killed by this evil, they would prefer that we move on into a more tranquil mindset, and make this day one of environmental service.

I cannot tell you how angry this makes me feel. Let me just say this, 9/11 will NEVER be for me a day of “green service,” or whatever they end up calling it.

Never.

In her post “Did You Know?” my friend Kris, over at Reflections by Kris, has written powerfully about this recent encroachment on American values by the current administration. “9/11 was about the environment. It’s bad enough that Obama went on The Great Apology Tour earlier this year, or said in the aftermath of 9/11 that we need to be more tolerant of other’s views. Now he wants to change the meaning of 9/11 to be so far from the events of that day that I’m sure the victims and their families are reeling from betrayal.”

Read the rest here…..
http://reflectionsbykris.squarespace.com/journal/2009/9/1/did-you-know.html


I Say “NO” To Obama’s Hijacking Of 9/11

AUG. 28th ,2009, Space Shuttle Discovery Blasts Off on Flight to International Space Station

Space Shuttle Discovery Blasts Off on Flight to International Space Station

Space Shuttle Discovery Blasts Off on Flight to International Space Station - Science News Science & Technology Technology News - FOXNews.com
Posted using ShareThis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida — Space shuttle Discovery and seven astronauts blazed into orbit Friday on a spectacular midnight flight to the international space station, hauling up a treadmill named after a TV funnyman and thousands of pounds of more solemn supplies.

Discovery lit up the sky for miles around as it thundered away on NASA's third launch attempt. Lightning flashed far in the distance, and the ascending shuttle resembled a bright star until it blinked out of sight five minutes after liftoff.

The space station was soaring more than 220 miles above the Indian Ocean, southwest of Tasmania, when Discovery took off. The shuttle will reach the orbiting outpost Sunday night.

"It looks like third time really is the charm," launch director Pete Nickolenko told commander Rick Sturckow. "We wish you and your team good luck and Godspeed."

Tuesday's launch attempt was called off by thunderstorms and Wednesday's by fuel valve trouble. Everything came together in NASA's favor Friday night; even the valve and its indicator switch behaved, allowing the shuttle to blast off seconds before midnight.

Discovery's most prominent payload is NASA's new $5 million treadmill, which is named after Comedy Central's Stephen Colbert.
Colbert tried to get a space station room named after himself and even won the online vote earlier this year, but NASA went with Tranquility instead in honor of the 40th anniversary of man's first moon landing.

The comedian said the treadmill — for "all those chubby astronauts" — is a consolation prize.

The treadmill is flying up in more than 100 pieces and won't be put together until sometime next month.

In all, the space shuttle will deliver about 17,000 pounds of gear to the space station. The experiments include six mice that will remain at the orbiting complex until the following shuttle visit in November. Part of a bone loss study, the mice will be the first mammals — other than humans — to spend a prolonged period at the space station.

"Let's go step up the science on the international space station," Sturckow radioed right before liftoff.

Three spacewalks will be performed during the 13-day shuttle flight, to install a new ammonia tank, part of the space station's cooling system, and replace other equipment and retrieve outdoor experiments.

The station also will get a new resident, Nicole Stott. She will replace an astronaut who moved in during the 13-day shuttle flight last month. That spaceman will return to Earth aboard Discovery, as will Buzz Lightyear. The action figure toy has been in orbit for more than a year, courtesy of Walt Disney World.

Stott, who will spend at least three months at the space station, tapped her heart with her right hand before climbing aboard Discovery and said, "I love you" to the cameras, presumably for her husband and 7-year-old son.

Discovery's crew includes two Hispanics, the first time two have flown together in space. Both are Mexican-Americans, and one of them, Jose Hernandez, grew up in a migrant worker family. Hernandez will file bilingual Twitter updates from orbit. A Swede is also on board.

It was NASA's 33rd nighttime shuttle launch and preceded, by just two days, the 25th anniversary of Discovery's first liftoff. Flags flew at half-staff throughout Kennedy Space Center on Friday in memory of Sen. Edward Kennedy.

Only seven shuttle flights remain, including this one. A blue-ribbon review committee should file its report soon, offering options to President Obama for the direction of NASA's human spaceflight program. As it stands now, the space shuttles will be retired after space station construction is completed in the next year to year-and-a-half.

Nasa's blog...
Thanks for Joining Us
Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:15:30 AM EDT


Just two days shy of the 25th anniversary of its maiden voyage, space shuttle Discovery rocketed away from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to begin the STS-128 mission to the International Space Station. The liftoff followed a remarkably smooth countdown with no technical issues and steadily improving weather.

Please join us again for NASA's Landing Blog. Discovery is scheduled to land at Kennedy on Sept. 10. For ongoing updates throughout this 13-day mission, please visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle.


Main Engine Cutoff
Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:08:38 AM EDT


>From mission control, the booster officer confirms main engine cutoff. After a smooth countdown and spectacular liftoff, Discovery has reached orbit.


Press to MECO
Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:06:29 AM EDT


Discovery would be able to reach orbit now even with the loss of one engine, although all three are performing as expected.


Press to ATO
Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:05:40 AM EDT


Discovery could safely reach a lower-than-planned orbit at this point even if one engine were to fail. But all three engines are performing well.


All Systems in Great Shape
Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:04:56 AM EDT


Discovery now is 212 miles downrange from Kennedy Space Center.


Negative Return
Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:03:46 AM EDT


Space shuttle Discovery is traveling too fast and is too far downrange to return to Kennedy Space Center in the unlikely event of an engine failure.


Solid Rocket Booster Separation
Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:02:12 AM EDT


The solid rocket boosters have separated from space shuttle Discovery and are falling toward the ocean, where they'll be retrieved and towed back to Kennedy for refurbishment. Meanwhile, Discovery's two orbital maneuvering system engines are assisting with the climb toward orbit.


'Go at Throttle Up'
Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:00:56 AM EDT


Discovery's three main engines are throttling up to 104 percent of rated thrust as the vehicle heads toward maximum aerodynamic pressure, known as "max Q."


Liftoff!
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:59:47 PM EDT


Solid rocket booster ignition and liftoff! Space shuttle Discovery and a crew of seven astronauts are blazing across the night sky, lighting Florida's Space Coast in a golden glow. Launch control at Kennedy has passed the baton to mission control in Houston as Discovery clears the tower and rotates into a head-down position.

As Discovery thunders toward space, the International Space Station is 225 miles above the Indian Ocean, flying southwest of Tasmania.


'Go' for Auto-Sequence Start
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:59:17 PM EDT


T-31 seconds. Discovery's onboard computers have taken control of the countdown at this point. At T-6 seconds, Discovery's trio of main engines will roar to life and the vehicle will strain against its hold-down bolts until the bolts are released at T-0. Stand by for liftoff!


Time to Fly
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:57:46 PM EDT


T-2 minutes. The Orbiter Test Conductor John Kracsun instructed the flight crew to close and lock their visors and activate the flow of oxygen to their helmets. The launch control team's communication channels are very quiet now as the final countdown milestones are checked off.


Go for APU Start
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:54:54 PM EDT


T-5 minutes and counting. The ground launch sequencer is "go" for APU start. Pilot Kevin Ford is activating all three of space shuttle Discovery's auxiliary power units, which will power the hydraulics driving the orbiter's steering mechanisms.

Liquid oxygen stable replenish is complete. The gaseous oxygen vent hood, commonly called the "beanie cap," soon will be retracted from the top of the external fuel tank and moved out of the way.


Orbiter Access Arm is Retracted
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:52:21 PM EDT


The ground launch sequencer is pulling the orbiter access arm away from space shuttle Discovery. If an emergency required the astronauts to evacuate the shuttle, the arm would be moved back into place in a matter of seconds.


T-9 Minutes and Counting
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:50:46 PM EDT


Less than nine minutes to go until space shuttle Discovery lights up the darkened sky above central Florida. The ground launch sequencer is automatically controlling all critical tasks during this final stretch of the countdown.


Polls Complete: Discovery is 'Go'
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:47:31 PM EDT


Mission Management Team Chairman Mike Moses, NASA Test Director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson and STS-128 Launch Director Pete Nickolenko have completed their final prelaunch polls. Space shuttle Discovery is "go" for launch tonight at 11:59 p.m. EDT.


A Great Night for a Launch
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:40:25 PM EDT


It's a beautiful late-summer night for a space shuttle launch. The weather is cooperating nicely and no technical issues have been reported. Discovery and its crew of seven astronauts are alone at Launch Pad 39A as the minutes tick by until liftoff at 11:59 p.m. There is very little conversation over the airwaves and communication loops in the Launch Control Center.


T-9 Minutes and Holding
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:22:08 PM EDT


The countdown has entered its final built-in hold at T-9 minutes. This hold lasts 45 minutes, 37 seconds. Tonight's preferred launch time is 11:59:37 p.m. EDT.

SPACE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY TO LAUNCH TONIGHT @ 11:59:23 PM AUGUST 28, 2009, Go for launch !!! Woo hoo.

GO FOR LAUNCH WAS JUST CALLED . NO PROBLEMS.
To watch it live on the net..go here. This will be a beautiful night launch. READ ON BELOW ABOUT THE MISSION.

http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html

Nasa had to postpone the launch 3 times due to various problems.
Lightning one day, a bad valve the next and then I have no clue what yesterdays problem was. They will try tonight 5-29-2009 @ 11:59.37
God speed guys and gals.
















Discovery Secured to Launch Pad
Tue, 04 Aug 2009 02:11:03 PM EDT

Space shuttle Discovery reached Launch Pad 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Tuesday afternoon following a slow drive on the top of the crawler-transporter from the Vehicle Assembly Building. The 3.4-mile rollout began at 2:07 a.m. and ended with the launch platform secured in place at about 1:50 p.m. The move took longer than expected because of weather conditions, including lightning. The crawler also had to pause occasionally so mud could be removed from its treads and bearings. Technicians will quickly ready the shuttle to host the crew’s countdown dress rehearsal known as the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Discovery’s seven astronauts plan to fly to Kennedy on Wednesday for the training activity which concludes later in the week with a complete practice countdown, minus liftoff, involving the crew and the launch team.

(08/04/2009) --- CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Sitting on top of the mobile launcher platform, space shuttle Discovery arrives on top of Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Traveling from the Vehicle Assembly Building, the shuttle took nearly 12 hours on the journey as technicians stopped several times to clear mud from the crawler's treads and bearings caused by the waterlogged crawlerway. First motion out of the VAB was at 2:07 a.m. EDT Aug. 4. Rollout was delayed approximately 2 hours due to lightning in the area













Image above: Lightning makes a dramatic background and slows the rollout of space shuttle Discovery to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Tuesday. First motion of the shuttle out of the Vehicle Assembly Building was at 2:07 a.m














Image above: Seated are Commander Rick Sturckow (right) and Pilot Kevin Ford. From the left (standing) are mission specialists José Hernández, John "Danny" Olivas, Nicole Stott, European Space Agency's Christer Fuglesang and Patrick Forrester. Stott is scheduled to join Expedition 20 as flight engineer after launching to the International Space Station on STS-128.

Commander Rick Sturckow will lead the STS-128 mission to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Discovery with Kevin Ford serving as pilot. Also serving aboard Discovery are mission specialists Patrick Forrester, José Hernández, John "Danny" Olivas, Christer Fuglesang and Nicole Stott.

Stott will remain on the station as an Expedition 20 flight engineer replacing Timothy Kopra. Kopra will return home aboard Discovery as a mission specialist.

Discovery is carrying the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module containing life support racks and science racks. The Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier will also be launched in Discovery's payload bay.

This is Discovery's 37th mission to space and the 30th mission of a space shuttle dedicated to the assembly and maintenance of the International Space Station.


Launch Target:
11:59:23 P.M. EDT - Aug. 28, 2009
Orbiter:
Discovery
Mission Number:
STS-128
(128th space shuttle flight)
Launch Window:
10 minutes
Launch Pad:
39A
Landing Site:
KSC
Inclination/Altitude:
51.6 degrees/122 nautical miles
Primary Payload:
30th station flight (17A), Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module, Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier

Here is the Launch blog.
go here for more.
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/launch/launch_blog.html

One Hour Until Launch
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:59:27 PM EDT


One hour remains until the scheduled liftoff of space shuttle Discovery at 11:59 p.m. Weather is cooperating and the launch team is not working on any technical problems.


Weather Upgraded
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:55:44 PM EDT


Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters has upgraded the launch weather forecast to 80 percent "go." She and the Spaceflight Meteorology Group in Houston will continue to keep an eye on conditions, but no new storms have flared up within the 20 nautical mile limit.


T-20 Minutes and Counting
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:54:08 PM EDT


The countdown is under way at T-20 minutes and counting. Tonight's final built-in hold is coming up at T-9 minutes.


T-20 Minutes and Holding
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:44:12 PM EDT


The countdown clock is holding at T-20 minutes. This built-in hold lasts only 10 minutes, so the countdown will continue at 10:54 p.m. The Closeout Crew is preparing to leave the launch pad and will retreat to a roadblock set up a short distance away. Everything continues on schedule for launch of space shuttle Discovery at 11:59 p.m.


White Room Closeout
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:34:47 PM EDT


With Discovery's seven astronauts safely strapped in and the hatch sealed for liftoff, it's time for the Closeout Crew to secure the White Room and leave the launch pad. They'll pull away the seal connecting the White Room to Discovery's side and fasten the walls. The yellow hose that delivered air to the crew module earlier is now tucked into a locker.


Less Than Two Hours Left
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:02:30 PM EDT


Less than two more hours until launch. The countdown is going very well this evening, with weather conditions remaining favorable for now, and no technical issues being discussed by the launch team. Space shuttle Discovery and a crew of seven astronauts are ready to lift off on the STS-128 mission to the International Space Station at 11:59 p.m.


Final Inspection Team Report Complete; Hatch Closed
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:59:10 PM EDT


There are no ice/frost concerns for tonight's launch. The ice formation detected earlier is the same size as previous formations in the same area and the launch team processed a waiver for it. It's been determined to be acceptable and within known conditions. Two other areas of interest were not considered a concern and did not require waivers.

Discovery's hatch is closed and crew cabin leak checks will verify a good, tight seal. Commander Sturckow will oversee the pressurization of the crew cabin to flight pressure.


Countdown Update
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:46:10 PM EDT


Launch managers are still discussing an ice formation detected earlier in the area of the liquid hydrogen T-0 umbilical. It is similar in size and shape to those spotted on previous launch attempts. Its size has been determined not to be a debris hazard.

The weather is favorable, overall. We're currently "green" on all launch weather constraints, although pop-up showers within 20 nautical miles could pose a concern for return-to-launch-site abort rules.

The Closeout Crew is ready to begin closing space shuttle Discovery's hatch.


Comm Checks Complete
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:34:45 PM EDT


The STS-128 crew just completed a round of communications checks and air-to-ground voice checks between the astronauts, Launch Control Center at Kennedy and Mission Control Center at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.

The Closeout Crew is removing all non-flight items and finishing up any additional work inside Discovery's crew module before closing the hatch.


Fuglesang and Hernandez Last to Board
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:15:35 PM EDT


Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang, a member of the European Space Agency's astronaut corps from Sweden, is strapping into Seat 6 in the center of Discovery's middeck. Last to board Discovery is Mission Specialist Jose Hernandez. He'll sit in Seat 5, in the second row of the flight deck. With Hernandez on board, crew ingress is complete.

Both Fuglesang and Hernandez offer their thoughts and insights on Twitter. You can find Fuglesang at
http://twitter.com/CFuglesang and Hernandez at http://twitter.com/astro_jose.

About two hours ago, Fuglesang tweeted, "T-4:50 Had my hamburger. Suit up in 20 min. Signing off again and hope to be back on-line in two weeks (and not earlier:-) )"

Now, back to the blog.


Olivas is Seated; Forrester is Next
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:58:28 PM EDT


Mission Specialist Danny Olivas is strapped into Seat 5, on the left side of Discovery's middeck, nearest the hatch. Next to board is Mission Specialist Patrick Forrester, who will ride into space in Seat 3 on the second row of the flight deck.


Ford Boards Discovery
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:52:30 PM EDT


STS-128 Pilot Kevin Ford is next to take his seat inside space shuttle Discovery. He'll sit in the right front seat on the flight deck, beside Commander Sturckow. This will be Ford's first spaceflight.

After strapping in, the astronauts plug into cooling units and put on their gloves and helmets.

Meanwhile, a few new pop-up storm cells have appeared on the radar about 30 miles west of Kennedy. This isn't an immediate concern, but definitely warrants close attention as the countdown continues.


Stott Straps In
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:42:27 PM EDT


Next aboard is first-time space flier Nicole Stott, who will serve as a mission specialist before taking her position as Expedition 20 flight engineer on the International Space Station. Stott, who claims Clearwater, Fla. as her hometown, will sit on the right side of Discovery's middeck in Seat 7.


Sturckow Climbs Aboard
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:38:24 PM EDT


Discovery's astronauts have arrived at the launch pad, where Commander Rick "C.J." Sturckow is the first to board space shuttle Discovery. A veteran of three prior spaceflights, Sturckow will sit in the front left seat of the flight deck.


Final Inspection Complete
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:25:39 PM EDT


The Final Inspection Team recently completed its walkdown of Launch Pad 39A. There is one ice formation spotted in the area of the liquid hydrogen T-0 umbilical. This has been noted during previous countdowns and will be evaluated tonight to ensure it is not a debris hazard.


Astrovan Makes Two Stops
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:23:23 PM EDT


Chief Astronaut Steve Lindsey is on his way to Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility. Flying first in a T-38 training jet and later on in the Shuttle Training Aircraft, Lindsey will monitor the weather around the Kennedy launch site and relay his observations to weather officials. He'll help make judgments about the transparency of anvil clouds, reports that could end up being an important factor in tonight's launch decision.

The Astrovan convoy stopped briefly outside the Launch Control Center to drop off Director of Flight Crew Operations Brent Jett and other management astronauts. With its stops complete, the Astrovan and its security escorts are approaching Launch Pad 39A.


Discovery's Astronauts Leave for the Launch Pad
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:10:26 PM EDT


The STS-128 astronauts are headed to the launch pad, where space shuttle Discovery awaits liftoff tonight at 11:59 p.m. With big smiles on their faces, they waved to a cheering crowd of supporters as they boarded the Astrovan. The drive to the launch pad is scheduled to take about 25 minutes. To avoid overheating in their heavy suits, the astronauts can plug into cooling units at each seat.

And Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters just shared more good news with STS-128 Launch Director Pete Nickolenko: we are now "green" on all weather constraints. As predicted, the thunderstorms and lightning in the area earlier have dissipated and moved away. Although weather officials are keeping an eye on a storm system to the south, the current weather at the launch site is looking much better than it did earlier this evening.


T-3 Hours and Counting
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:04:08 PM EDT


Once again, countdown clocks at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida are ticking toward liftoff of space shuttle Discovery at 11:59 p.m. The next built-in hold is a 10-minute pause at T-20 minutes.

Tonight's countdown continues to go very smoothly. The astronauts will leave their crew quarters shortly and begin the drive out to the launch pad inside the silver-colored Astrovan.


Good News on Weather
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:54:00 PM EDT


The weather continues to trend in the right direction. We're now "green" on lightning, ceiling and field mill rules. Only three rules -- cumulus cloud, anvil cloud and flight-through-precipitation rules -- are still "red." That's an improvement over the situation earlier, when all six of the above-mentioned rules were in the red.

There are no technical issues being discussed by the launch team. The T-3-hour built-in hold will end shortly, at 8:04 p.m.


Astronauts Suiting Up; Weather Improving
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:39:19 PM EDT


Inside their crew quarters in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building, the STS-128 astronauts are dressed in their orange launch-and-entry suits, known officially as the Advanced Crew Escape Suit, or ACES. They're scheduled to depart for the launch pad at 8:09 p.m.

The weather situation has shown some improvement. The Phase 2 lightning warning has ended, and although there is still a storm cell to the southeast of the pad, it is expected to dissipate and continue moving out of the area. With the expiration of the Phase 2 lightning warning, the Final Inspection Team has resumed its inspection of space shuttle Discovery and the pad surface.


Weather Update
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:13:47 PM EDT


Weather at launch time is still forecast to be 60 percent "go," according to Lt. Col. Patrick Barrett of the 45th Weather Squadron. Right now, we're seeing some thunderstorm development and lightning strikes within 5 nautical miles, prompting a Phase 2 lightning warning at the launch site, and violating several launch rules for weather: lightning, cumulus clouds, anvil clouds, debris clouds, field mills and flight-through-precipitation. But according to Barrett, these are mostly related to a thunderstorm in the area and the remnant of another storm that moved in. Additionally, Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters just reported a ceiling forming at the Shuttle Landing Facility, so the range now is "red" for the ceiling rule.

Again, the forecast is still 60 percent "go," and weather officials are hopeful that the weather trends will improve within the next hour or so as the inclement weather moves out.

Meanwhile, the Final Inspection Team at Launch Pad 39A has taken shelter until the Phase 2 lightning warning clears.


Closeout Crew Begins Preps for Astronaut Boarding
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:03:36 PM EDT


The seven-person Closeout Crew is preparing for the astronauts' arrival in the launch pad's environmentally controlled White Room later tonight. Astronaut Shane Kimbrough is providing support, and as part of the Closeout Crew, he will help the flight crew strap into their seats inside Discovery's crew module.


Final Inspection Team Conducting its Detailed Survey
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 06:57:03 PM EDT


At Launch Pad 39A, the Final Inspection Team is performing their standard prelaunch survey of the space shuttle vehicle and launch pad structure. The seven-member team uses digital cameras, a telescope, an infrared radiometer to look for ice, frost or cracks forming on or near the shuttle's external tank. This evening, the launch team is investigating a formation of ice at the area of the liquid hydrogen T-0 umbilical. This has been noted on the past two launches and it will be evaluated to determine whether it's a concern tonight.


About the STS-128 Mission
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 06:43:55 PM EDT


Space shuttle Discovery is launching on the STS-128 mission, a 13-day flight to replenish supplies and deliver science experiments to the International Space Station. Inside its payload bay, Discovery is carrying the Leonardo supply module, which is filled with science and storage racks, a freezer to store research samples, a new sleeping compartment and the COLBERT treadmill, named after TV show host Stephen Colbert.


Discovery Poised for New Launch Attempt
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 06:32:58 PM EDT


Thanks for joining NASA's Launch Blog for the liftoff of space shuttle Discovery, scheduled for 11:59 p.m. The countdown clock is holding at T-3 hours. Launch team members are monitoring Discovery's health and the progress of the countdown from Firing Room 4 inside Kennedy's Launch Control Center, about three miles from the launch pad. The Launch Blog is based right next door, in Firing Room 3.

No technical issues are being reported by the launch team, but it's going to be a busy evening for the Spaceflight Meteorology Group based at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston and launch weather officials from the 45th Weather Squadron in Florida. Although the forecast calls for a 60 percent chance of favorable conditions at launch time, the Eastern Range currently is "red," meaning no-go, on anvil clouds, cumulus clouds, field mills, lightning, and flight-through-precipitation rules.

More than 500,000 gallons of liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen have been loaded into the 154-foot tall orange tank. The tanking process began at 2:45 p.m. and concluded at 5:48 p.m. Fueling has entered the "stable replenish" mode. The inboard liquid hydrogen fill-and-drain valve and position indicator that caused a launch scrub earlier in the week are functioning correctly today.

Launch Blog Begins Aug. 28 at 6:30 p.m.
Fri, 28 Aug 2009 05:32:30 PM EDT

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always



















WE WILL NEVER FORGET !!

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always

THANK YOU PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH !

THANK YOU PRESIDENT BUSH FOR KEEPING US SAFE. You will always be my PRESIDENT. Job well done ! God bless you and your family always