STS 131 Space Shuttle Discovery Launch April 5th, 2010, 6:21 AM EST COVERAGE PICS

Launch of Space shuttle Dicovery. April 5th, 2010 @ 6:21 AM. Kennedy Space Center, Florida.
STS 131 MISSION OF THE SPACE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY. See NASA LAUNCH BLOG COMMENTS BELOW THE PICTURES and video.









T-9 Minutes and Holding
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:27:06 AM EDT

We've entered the final built-in hold of today's launch countdown. This 45-minute hold is set to release at 6:12 a.m.

The length of the T-9 minute hold is typically adjusted slightly to target a precise launch time. International Space Station missions have a relatively short launch window because the shuttle is pursuing the orbiting station. The team is aiming for liftoff at 6:21 a.m.

Kennedy Area Clear for Launch
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:26:46 AM EDT

The Closeout Crew has reached the roadblock. There are no nonessential personnel left inside the "launch danger area," and the Kennedy area has been declared clear for launch.

One Hour Until Launch
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:21:30 AM EDT

We're now one hour away from the scheduled liftoff of space shuttle Discovery at 6:21 a.m. Weather is "go" and is expected to remain favorable through the remainder of the countdown. No technical issues are being discussed, and all is quiet in the Launch Control Center.

T-20 Minutes and Counting
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:16:06 AM EDT

The countdown has resumed. The final built-in hold will begin at the T-9 minute mark. Discovery's primary and backup avionics software systems are being switched into "OPS 1," or launch mode. Of the shuttle's five general purpose computers, four run the primary avionics software and the fifth runs the backup flight system.

White Room Secured for Launch
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:10:55 AM EDT

The Closeout Crew has finished in the White Room and is departing the launch pad, retreating to a roadblock a safe distance away. The team will be available to return quickly to the pad if needed.


T-20 Minutes and Holding
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:06:11 AM EDT

Countdown clocks at NASA's Kennedy Space Center are holding at T-20 minutes. The hold will release at 5:16 a.m.

Closeout Crew Continuing Work
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 04:56:33 AM EDT

At T-30 minutes and counting, the Closeout Crew continues its work in the White Room outside Discovery's crew access hatch. The cabin will be vented and the vent valves closed, and the White Room will be configured for launch before the team departs.

The ground launch sequencer main line computer program has been activated and is processing data. It will continue monitoring key commands and systems until it assumes control of the countdown at T-9 minutes and counting.

Our next built-in hold is coming up at T-20 minutes.

Ferguson Watching the Weather
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 04:34:35 AM EDT

Astronaut Chris Ferguson is piloting the Shuttle Training Aircraft, a modified Gulfstream jet that mimics the flying characteristics of a landing shuttle orbiter. From now until after liftoff, Ferguson will patrol the skies throughout the launch area, monitoring weather conditions and reporting his observations to launch management. At the moment, weather is "go," with a slight concern for development of fog or a cloud ceiling that could interfere with an emergency shuttle landing, if one were needed. Forecasters continue to predict an 80 percent chance of good weather for launch.

T-1 Hour and Counting
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 04:26:33 AM EDT

At T-1 hour and counting, all astronauts are seated in Discovery, the hatch is closed and leak checks are under way. Launch is scheduled for 6:21 a.m.

Closeout Crew 'Go' to Close Hatch
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 04:21:57 AM EDT

In the White Room, the Closeout Crew is closing Discovery's side hatch. Before the hatch could be moved into position, the inner and outer seals were cleaned to ensure a solid overlap. The seals also will be pressurized, further strengthening the seal. Soon the cabin and hatch seal will be tested to verify there are no leaks.

Space Station to Pass Over the Launch Site
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 04:10:40 AM EDT

At the time of liftoff, the International Space Station will be about 220 miles over the Atlantic Ocean, southwest of Ireland. But about 17 minutes before launch, at 6:04 a.m., the space station will pass over the Kennedy Space Center, providing an excellent sighting opportunity as it moves from the south-southwest to the east. It should be visible for about three minutes, peaking at a 43 degree elevation.

Ready for Crew Module Closeout
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:55:09 AM EDT

At T-1 hour, 30 minutes and counting, all seven astronauts are safely strapped into their seats and ready to fly, and the Closeout Crew is ready to finish up work in Discovery's crew module. Before closing the hatch, the flight deck and middeck are inspected to make sure "non-flight" items, such as standing platforms, switch guards and protective covers, are all removed from the shuttle.

Weather Back to 'Green'; All Astronauts on Board
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:49:26 AM EDT

The weather is back to "go" status now that the cloud deck above the Shuttle Landing Facility has scattered. The last to board Discovery was Mission Specialist Dorothy Metcalf-Lindenburger, also a first-time space flier. She's climbing into Seat 4, located in the back row of the flight deck between Poindexter and Dutton. Before her selection as a NASA astronaut in 2004, Metcalf-Lindenburger was a high-school Earth science and astronomy teacher and athletic coach.

Yamazaki Ready for Ingress
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:34:10 AM EDT

STS-131 is the first spaceflight for Mission Specialist Naoko Yamazaki, who waved excitedly and held up a sign for her loved ones. Representing the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Yamazaki was selected as an astronaut in 1999. She'll be strapped into Seat 6 in the center of the middeck.

Mastracchio Boarding Discovery
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:31:32 AM EDT

The next astronaut to crawl through Discovery's crew hatch is Mission Specialist Rick Mastracchio. He'll ride into space in Seat 3, located in the right back row of the flight deck behind Dutton. He and Anderson will be the spacewalkers on this flight, and they'll swap seats for the trip home, with Anderson strapped into his seat on the flight deck and Mastracchio riding back to Earth in Seat 7, down in the middeck. STS-131 is Mastracchio's third shuttle flight.

Countdown Going Well
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:26:40 AM EDT

Everything continues to go smoothly this morning at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, where space shuttle Discovery is poised for liftoff on its STS-131 mission. Launch is scheduled for 6:21 a.m. The astronauts are in the process of boarding the shuttle and strapping into their seats.

The countdown clock is at T-2 hours and counting.

Cloud Ceiling Violates Weather Rules
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:16:37 AM EDT

Launch Weather Officer Kathy Winters just informed Launch Director Pete Nickolenko that cloud cover above the Shuttle Landing Facility is too low and thick, violating launch constraints. Conditions in Central Florida can change very quickly, so although weather is "red" for now, it may go "green" again during the course of the countdown.

Wilson Enters the White Room
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:11:12 AM EDT

Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson is preparing to climb into Seat 5 on the middeck. A Harvard graduate, Wilson previously served as a mission specialist on missions STS-121 and STS-120, both aboard shuttle Discovery.

Anderson is Aboard; Dutton Up Next
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:06:03 AM EDT

Next into the crew module is Mission Specialist Clayton Anderson, participating in his second shuttle launch. In 2007, Anderson flew aboard shuttle Atlantis with the STS-117 crew to begin a five-month tour of duty aboard the International Space Station, serving as the Expedition 15/16 flight engineer and science officer. He gave a quick salute to the Closeout Crew before crawling through the hatch. For liftoff, Anderson will sit in Seat 7, on the far-right side of Discovery's middeck.

Pilot James P. Dutton Jr. will strap into Seat 2 on the front-right side of the flight deck, beside Poindexter. The U.S. Air Force colonel has logged at least 3,300 flight hours in more than 30 different aircraft. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2004, Dutton is about to launch on his first spaceflight.

Commander is First to Board
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 03:02:43 AM EDT

Commander Alan Poindexter is the first to climb aboard Discovery. A U.S. Navy captain, Poindexter piloted space shuttle Atlantis on its STS-122 mission back in 2008. As he entered the White Room, he held up a hand-lettered sign for the camera, sending his love to his family. The commander's seat is Seat 1 on the front-left side of the flight deck.

Astronauts Ready to Board Discovery
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:53:19 AM EDT

After pausing for a few moments to take pictures at the base of space shuttle Discovery, it's time for the crew to begin boarding. Up at the pad's 195-foot level, the Closeout Crew is ready to begin helping the astronauts put on their communications caps, parachute packs and other gear. Thanks to a launch dress rehearsal a few weeks ago, this routine is familiar to everyone. Called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, the rehearsal is a standard part of prelaunch training and gives first-time fliers a chance to practice these procedures, provides a refresher course for veteran astronauts and gives the entire team the opportunity to work together before launch day.

Since the White Room gets crowded with Closeout Crew members and equipment, there is only room inside for one or two astronauts at a time. Once they're on board, they'll spend the rest of the countdown lying on their backs. Astronauts will begin checking their voice communications systems after strapping in.

A Sight to Behold
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:48:39 AM EDT

Riding in the Astrovan, the astronauts are seeing shuttle Discovery lit up on the pad for the first time. The view of the pad emerges from beyond the treeline, looming larger in the windshield as the van approaches.

Next Stop: Launch Pad 39A
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:44:11 AM EDT

At this point, the only people riding in the silver Astrovan are the STS-131 crew and a technician who will serve as part of the Closeout Crew, helping with final suit-up and boarding. They'll arrive at the launch pad in the next few minutes. The van will pass through the gate at the pad perimeter and drive up the concrete hardstand, letting the riders off near the pad elevator.

Two Stops Along the Way
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:39:47 AM EDT

The Astrovan makes two stops during the drive out to Launch Pad 39A. First, astronaut Chris Ferguson will step out of the van and into a waiting car for a ride to the Shuttle Landing Facility, where he'll pilot weather-observing flights later this morning. Minutes later, the Astrovan will pause again at the driveway to the Launch Control Center, dropping off Director of Flight Crew Operations Brent Jett and Chief Astronaut Peggy Whitson.

Astronauts Depart for Launch Pad 39A
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:32:56 AM EDT

The STS-131 astronauts stepped out of the Operations and Checkout Building, waved to the gathered crowd of friends, space workers and news media and climbed into the Astrovan, which is actually a vintage Airstream mobile home. Shouts, cheers and a bright flurry of camera flashes greeted the crew members as they made their way to their ride. Under heavy security, the van is on its way to Launch Pad 39A. The astronauts have the option of plugging into cooling units if they begin to feel too warm in their suits.

T-3 Hours and Counting
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:26:11 AM EDT

At T-3 hours and counting, the countdown is moving once again. The astronauts will depart their quarters in the Operations and Checkout Building in about five minutes.

Countdown to Resume in Minutes
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:12:51 AM EDT

The countdown is set to resume at 2:26 a.m. with the release of the T-3 hour built-in hold. Prelaunch activities continue to go smoothly this morning as we continue toward liftoff of space shuttle Discovery at 6:21 a.m.

Astronauts Suiting Up for Flight
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:02:17 AM EDT

With a meal, a photo opportunity and medical checks out of the way, Discovery's astronauts are beginning to climb into their bright-orange launch-and-entry suits. Known as the Advanced Crew Escape Suit, or ACES, the outfit provides a cocoon of air and storage for a multitude of survival tools.

Suiting up can take the better part of an hour. Although crew members have suit technicians and others to assist them as they put on these heavy suits for launch, they'll have to rely on their own experience and the help of their crewmates when it's time to get dressed for landing.

Weather Looks Promising
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:00:36 AM EDT

A high pressure system has resulted in pleasant conditions overnight at Kennedy Space Center. Skies are partly cloudy and there's a light wind from the east. Weather forecasters are somewhat concerned about the possibility of fog developing due to the stable conditions and temperatures close to the dewpoint. The wind may help keep fog development at bay.

Weather officials for today's countdown include Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters of the 45th Weather Squadron, forecasters with the National Weather Service's Spaceflight Meteorology Group based in Houston, and astronaut John Casper serving as the weather coordinator in Kennedy's Firing Room 4. Additionally, astronaut George Zamka is the weather interface in the Mission Control Center.

Astronauts, Discovery Ready to Deliver New Science Materials
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 01:38:58 AM EDT

Commander Alan Poindexter leads a crew of seven astronauts on STS-131, the 33rd shuttle flight to the International Space Station and the 131st flight of the Space Shuttle Program. Discovery is taking a multi-purpose logistics module brimming with science racks for transfer into the station's laboratories. The flight also will feature three spacewalks to perform maintenance work and retrieve a Japanese science experiment mounted outside the station.

STS-131 Countdown Overview
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 01:29:28 AM EDT

The STS-131 launch countdown began at 3 a.m. April 2, when special clocks at Kennedy Space Center blinked to life at T-43 hours and counting. After two more days of final preparations to shuttle Discovery and Launch Pad 39A, the rotating service structure protecting the vehicle was rolled away. At this point, Discovery's external tank is filled with propellants, weather looks promising, and the astronauts are awake and preparing to leave for the launch pad in a little more than an hour.

Inside Discovery's crew module, astronaut Chris Cassidy is serving as the prime astronaut support person, setting up for crew boarding and checking the communications systems. Cassidy served as a mission specialist on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 flight in 2009.

Tanking Complete; Work Continues at Launch Pad 39A
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 01:21:49 AM EDT

Discovery's orange external fuel tank has been loaded with half a million gallons of chilled liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. Tanking operations began at 9:28 p.m. and concluded about three hours later. Fueling was delayed by about half an hour while the launch team investigated a voltage spike in a fuel cell pump motor, but the tanking process went very well and wrapped up at 12:21 a.m. Because small amounts of both propellants will continue to warm up and evaporate throughout the countdown, valves at the pad will cycle on and off, replacing the lost propellant through "stable replenish." No further voltage spikes have been observed.

With tanking complete, two specialized teams are performing critical tasks out at the launch pad. The Final Inspection Team, often called the "Ice Team," is getting an up-close look at Discovery and the pad structures. Any ice development will be monitored, characterized and reported to launch management before the team departs the launch pad. At the same time, the Closeout Crew is working inside the environmentally controlled White Room and in the shuttle's crew module, preparing for the astronauts' arrival and boarding at about 3 a.m.

Discovery Ready for Morning Liftoff
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 01:15:13 AM EDT

Good morning, and welcome to NASA's Launch Blog. Despite the early hour, it's a busy time at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where space shuttle Discovery and the STS-131 astronauts are preparing for liftoff at 6:21 a.m. EDT. The countdown clock is at T-3 hours and holding. This built-in hold is set to end at 2:26 a.m.

Discovery stands atop its mobile launcher platform at Launch Pad 39A, easily visible in the early morning darkness because of million-candlepower xenon lights trained on the vehicle from the pad perimeter. Forecasters predict an 80 percent chance of conditions favorable to launch. Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters is expected to give a weather update in the next few minutes.

Launch Director Pete Nickolenko and the team of launch controllers are monitoring the countdown from Firing Room 4 in the Launch Control Center about three miles west of the launch pad. NASA's Launch Blog originates right next door in Firing Room 3. Meanwhile, across the space center in their crew quarters, Discovery's seven astronauts are awake and will begin suiting up shortly.

OTHER INFO ABOUT LAUNCH DAY....
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 06:12:51 GMT
Suiting up can take the better part of an hour. Although crew members have suit technicians and others to assist them as they put on these heavy suits for launch, they'll have to rely on their own experience and the help of their crewmates when it's time to get dressed for landing.

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 06:02:17 GMT
Weather officials for today's countdown include Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters of the 45th Weather Squadron, forecasters with the National Weather Service's Spaceflight Meteorology Group based in Houston, and astronaut John Casper serving as the weather coordinator in Kennedy's Firing Room 4. Additionally, astronaut George Zamka is the weather interface in the Mission Control Center.

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 06:00:36 GMT

Inside Discovery's crew module, astronaut Chris Cassidy is serving as the prime astronaut support person, setting up for crew boarding and checking the communications systems. Cassidy served as a mission specialist on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 flight in 2009.

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:29:28 GMT
With tanking complete, two specialized teams are performing critical tasks out at the launch pad. The Final Inspection Team, often called the "Ice Team," is getting an up-close look at Discovery and the pad structures. Any ice development will be monitored, characterized and reported to launch management before the team departs the launch pad. At the same time, the Closeout Crew is working inside the environmentally controlled White Room and in the shuttle's crew module, preparing for the astronauts' arrival and boarding at about 3 a.m.

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:21:49 GMT
Discovery stands atop its mobile launcher platform at Launch Pad 39A, easily visible in the early morning darkness because of million-candlepower xenon lights trained on the vehicle from the pad perimeter. Forecasters predict an 80 percent chance of conditions favorable to launch. Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters is expected to give a weather update in the next few minutes.

Launch Director Pete Nickolenko and the team of launch controllers are monitoring the countdown from Firing Room 4 in the Launch Control Center about three miles west of the launch pad. NASA's Launch Blog originates right next door in Firing Room 3. Meanwhile, across the space center in their crew quarters, Discovery's seven astronauts are awake and will begin suiting up shortly.

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 07:11:12 GMT
Pilot James P. Dutton Jr. will strap into Seat 2 on the front-right side of the flight deck, beside Poindexter. The U.S. Air Force colonel has logged at least 3,300 flight hours in more than 30 different aircraft. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2004, Dutton is about to launch on his first spaceflight.


Mon, 05 Apr 2010 07:06:03 GMT
Since the White Room gets crowded with Closeout Crew members and equipment, there is only room inside for one or two astronauts at a time. Once they're on board, they'll spend the rest of the countdown lying on their backs. Astronauts will begin checking their voice communications systems after strapping in.

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 06:53:19 GMT
Suiting up can take the better part of an hour. Although crew members have suit technicians and others to assist them as they put on these heavy suits for launch, they'll have to rely on their own experience and the help of their crewmates when it's time to get dressed for landing.

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 06:02:17 GMT
Weather officials for today's countdown include Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters of the 45th Weather Squadron, forecasters with the National Weather Service's Spaceflight Meteorology Group based in Houston, and astronaut John Casper serving as the weather coordinator in Kennedy's Firing Room 4. Additionally, astronaut George Zamka is the weather interface in the Mission Control Center


Mon, 05 Apr 2010 06:00:36 GMT

Inside Discovery's crew module, astronaut Chris Cassidy is serving as the prime astronaut support person, setting up for crew boarding and checking the communications systems. Cassidy served as a mission specialist on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 flight in 2009.


Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:29:28 GMT
With tanking complete, two specialized teams are performing critical tasks out at the launch pad. The Final Inspection Team, often called the "Ice Team," is getting an up-close look at Discovery and the pad structures. Any ice development will be monitored, characterized and reported to launch management before the team departs the launch pad. At the same time, the Closeout Crew is working inside the environmentally controlled White Room and in the shuttle's crew module, preparing for the astronauts' arrival and boarding at about 3 a.m.

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:21:49 GMT
Discovery stands atop its mobile launcher platform at Launch Pad 39A, easily visible in the early morning darkness because of million-candlepower xenon lights trained on the vehicle from the pad perimeter. Forecasters predict an 80 percent chance of conditions favorable to launch. Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters is expected to give a weather update in the next few minutes.

Launch Director Pete Nickolenko and the team of launch controllers are monitoring the countdown from Firing Room 4 in the Launch Control Center about three miles west of the launch pad. NASA's Launch Blog originates right next door in Firing Room 3. Meanwhile, across the space center in their crew quarters, Discovery's seven astronauts are awake and will begin suiting up shortly.

http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle en-us
The length of the T-9 minute hold is typically adjusted slightly to target a precise launch time. International Space Station missions have a relatively short launch window because the shuttle is pursuing the orbiting station. The team is aiming for liftoff at 6:21 a.m
The ground launch sequencer main line computer program has been activated and is processing data. It will continue monitoring key commands and systems until it assumes control of the countdown at T-9 minutes and counting.

Our next built-in hold is coming up at T-20 minutes
The countdown clock is at T-2 hours and counting.

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 07:26:40 GMT Mon, 05 Apr 2010 07:16:37 GMT
As they get seated, the astronauts begin two-way checks of all their communications channels. During these tests, the crew members will talk with Orbiter Test Conductor Laurie Sally in the Launch Control Center and Flight Director Bryan Lunney in mission control.
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 07:11:12 GMT
Pilot James P. Dutton Jr. will strap into Seat 2 on the front-right side of the flight deck, beside Poindexter. The U.S. Air Force colonel has logged at least 3,300 flight hours in more than 30 different aircraft. Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2004, Dutton is about to launch on his first spaceflight.
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 07:06:03 GMT Mon, 05 Apr 2010 07:02:43 GMT
Since the White Room gets crowded with Closeout Crew members and equipment, there is only room inside for one or two astronauts at a time. Once they're on board, they'll spend the rest of the countdown lying on their backs. Astronauts will begin checking their voice communications systems after strapping in.
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 06:53:19 GMT
Suiting up can take the better part of an hour. Although crew members have suit technicians and others to assist them as they put on these heavy suits for launch, they'll have to rely on their own experience and the help of their crewmates when it's time to get dressed for landing.
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 06:02:17 GMT
Weather officials for today's countdown include Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters of the 45th Weather Squadron, forecasters with the National Weather Service's Spaceflight Meteorology Group based in Houston, and astronaut John Casper serving as the weather coordinator in Kennedy's Firing Room 4. Additionally, astronaut George Zamka is the weather interface in the Mission Control Center.
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 06:00:36 GMT
Inside Discovery's crew module, astronaut Chris Cassidy is serving as the prime astronaut support person, setting up for crew boarding and checking the communications systems. Cassidy served as a mission specialist on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 flight in 2009
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:29:28 GMT
With tanking complete, two specialized teams are performing critical tasks out at the launch pad. The Final Inspection Team, often called the "Ice Team," is getting an up-close look at Discovery and the pad structures. Any ice development will be monitored, characterized and reported to launch management before the team departs the launch pad. At the same time, the Closeout Crew is working inside the environmentally controlled White Room and in the shuttle's crew module, preparing for the astronauts' arrival and boarding at about 3 a.m.
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:21:49 GMT
Discovery stands atop its mobile launcher platform at Launch Pad 39A, easily visible in the early morning darkness because of million-candlepower xenon lights trained on the vehicle from the pad perimeter. Forecasters predict an 80 percent chance of conditions favorable to launch. Shuttle Weather Officer Kathy Winters is expected to give a weather update in the next few minutes.

Launch Director Pete Nickolenko and the team of launch controllers are monitoring the countdown from Firing Room 4 in the Launch Control Center about three miles west of the launch pad. NASA's Launch Blog originates right next door in Firing Room 3. Meanwhile, across the space center in their crew quarters, Discovery's seven astronauts are awake and will begin suiting up shortly.
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:

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
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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 Mission # STS-119 Landed safely today March 28, 2009, at Kennedy Space Center in Florida

Sat, 28 Mar 2009 21:18:02 GMT
Later this afternoon, Discovery will be towed back to an orbiter processing facility, which is located near the Vehicle Assembly Building and not far from the runway. Once the orbiter returns to its processing bay, crews will begin preparing it for its next flight, STS-128. READ THE LANDING BLOG BELOW.

From NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, thanks for joining us.

The astronauts and their families will return to Houston tomorrow.

"Welcome home, Discovery, after a great mission to bring the ISS to full power," CAPCOM George Zamka told the crew on board.

"Thank you very much, it's good to be back home," Commander Archambault responded.

The astronauts are dressed and seated just as they were for liftoff two weeks ago. On Discovery's flight deck, Commander Archambault and Pilot Tony Antonelli are seated in Seats 1 and 2, with Mission Specialists Joseph Acaba and Steve Swanson behind them in Seats 3 and 4. Below them on the middeck are Mission Specialists Richard Arnold, Sandra Magnus and John Phillips in Seats 5, 6 and 7, respectively. Magnus is returning to Earth after spending more than four months on the International Space Station.

Managers opted to skip today's first landing opportunity due to weather concerns. A second landing opportunity is available at 3:14 p.m. The deorbit burn to begin Discovery's return to Earth is scheduled for 2:08 p.m.

Astronaut Brent Jett is flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft at Kennedy, evaluating and reporting the weather conditions at the landing site. Meanwhile, the Spaceflight Meteorology Group is observing a shift in wind direction due to the developing sea breeze. The weather trends are improving, and flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston are expected to make the "go/no-go" decision on the deorbit burn in about 15 minutes.

Stay with NASA's Landing Blog for the latest from Kennedy Space Center.

]]> Sat, 28 Mar 2009 17:44:06 GMT
This Concludes Live Coverage
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 05:18:02 PM EDT

With the astronauts on their way back to their crew quarters and Discovery safe on the runway, this concludes our live landing coverage. For the latest space shuttle news and information, go to www.nasa.gov/shuttle.

From NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, thanks for joining us.

STS-119 Draws to a Close
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 05:17:28 PM EDT

The astronauts just took a moment to pose for photos before departing the runway. Commander Lee Archambault made a brief statement, thanking the launch and landing teams for their hard work and expressing the crew's pride following the successful STS-119 mission.

Later this afternoon, Discovery will be towed back to an orbiter processing facility, which is located near the Vehicle Assembly Building and not far from the runway. Once the orbiter returns to its processing bay, crews will begin preparing it for its next flight, STS-128.

The astronauts and their families will return to Houston tomorrow.

STS-119 Astronauts are on the Runway
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 04:57:51 PM EDT

The STS-119 astronauts are off the crew transport vehicle now, shaking hands with people gathered on the runway and taking a look at Discovery. Astronaut Sandra Magnus, who is returning from a long-duration stay aboard the International Space Station, remained inside the CTV.

Awaiting the Astronauts
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 04:41:13 PM EDT

The astronauts are expected to emerge from the crew transport vehicle soon. They'll visit with managers and other personnel on the ground while taking an up-close look at Discovery. After the walk-around, they'll depart for the Astronaut Crew Quarters.

All Astronauts Off Discovery
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 04:11:40 PM EDT

All seven crew members are now off Discovery and are inside the crew transport vehicle. After a routine checkup, some of the astronauts will have a chance to take the traditional walk-around of the shuttle while it sits on the runway.

Post-Landing Operations Continue
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:58:22 PM EDT

It's been 45 minutes since space shuttle Discovery touched down on Kennedy Space Center's runway. The landing convoy surrounds the orbiter as personnel continue working on post-landing activities. The crew will undergo a medical exam in the crew transport vehicle before stepping out onto the runway to take a look at Discovery.

Official Landing Times
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:34:49 PM EDT

Main gear touchdown occurred at 3:13:17 p.m. EDT, followed by nose gear touchdown at 3:13:40 and wheelstop at 3:14:45. In Mission Elapsed Time, main gear touchdown took place at 12 days, 19 hours, 29 minutes and 33 seconds into the flight, followed by nose gear touchdown at 12 days, 19 hours, 29 minutes and 56 seconds and wheelstop at 12 days, 19 hours, 31 minutes and one second.

Astronauts "Go" to Remove Suits
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:32:11 PM EDT

Discovery's astronauts have been given the go-ahead to climb out of their orange launch-and-entry suits. Post-landing operations continue on Kennedy Space Center's Runway 15.

STS-119 Landing Statistics
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:30:23 PM EDT

Discovery is home at Kennedy Space Center after traveling more than 5.3 million miles during its STS-119 mission. The orbiter spent eight days docked to the International Space Station, leaving behind Japan's first long-duration space flyer, astronaut Koichi Wakata, and adding more power capability to the station. Discovery returned to Earth with astronaut Sandra Magnus, who spent 129 days aboard the orbiting outpost. STS-119 was the 36th flight for Discovery and the 125th of the Space Shuttle Program. Today's landing is the 70th at Kennedy.

Wheelstop: Discovery is Home
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:16:17 PM EDT

Discovery has stopped rolling, and with that, the STS-119 mission is officially complete. The landing convoy will move onto the runway to begin the work of safing the orbiter and assisting the crew.

"Welcome home, Discovery, after a great mission to bring the ISS to full power," CAPCOM George Zamka told the crew on board.

"Thank you very much, it's good to be back home," Commander Archambault responded.

Nose Gear Touchdown
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:13:39 PM EDT

Nose gear touchdown! Discovery is rolling out on Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, wrapping up a 13-day mission to the International Space Station.

Main Gear Touchdown
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:13:33 PM EDT

Discovery's main landing gear touched down on Runway 15, kicking up swirls of dust as the vehicle made contact at more than 200 mph. Discovery's drag chute has been deployed to help slow the vehicle further as it continues down the runway.

Final Approach
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:12:58 PM EDT

Discovery and crew have the runway in sight. Only seconds until landing. Main and nose landing gear are down and locked. Stand by for touchdown.

Sonic Booms Echo Across Landing Site
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:10:19 PM EDT

Sonic booms! The unmistakable sound of an incoming shuttle orbiter just rattled the windows here at Kennedy Space Center. The distinctive booms are often heard across the state of Florida on landing day.

Discovery Circling Toward Final Approach
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:10:13 PM EDT

Archambault is guiding Discovery into a sweeping 261-degree turn around the "heading alignment circle," an imaginary circle that will bring the orbiter in line with Runway 15.

Commander Takes Control
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:10:03 PM EDT

Commander Lee Archambault is flying Discovery as the orbiter continues its steep glide toward touchdown.

Air-data Probes Deployed
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:05:34 PM EDT

Two probes have been released from Discovery's forward fuselage to measure air pressure and temperature. That information is used by the orbiter's computer to aid in guidance and steering.

10 Minutes Until Touchdown
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:04:25 PM EDT

Only 10 minutes until touchdown. Communications are now provided by Merritt Island Tracking Station in Florida. The orbiter's global positioning system is handling navigation.

Discovery Continues Toward Landing
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:00:44 PM EDT

All Discovery's systems are in good shape as the vehicle descends from an altitude of 185,000 feet. Forward speed is 9,800 mph. Range to landing 730 miles.

Discovery's Landing Path
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:56:57 PM EDT

Today's landing path will bring the shuttle over Central America and across the Gulf of Mexico as it approaches Florida from the southwest. Discovery will cross Central Florida as it descends toward Kennedy Space Center.

Aerosurfaces Control Steering
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:55:43 PM EDT

Enough aerodynamic pressure has built up around Discovery for the vehicle's reaction control thrusters to be deactivated. The ailerons and elevons are taking over steering. Range to landing site is 1,700 miles. Discovery is traveling 14,400 mph as approaches Central America from the southwest.

22 Minutes Until Touchdown
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:53:32 PM EDT

Discovery is traveling 15,300 mph. Range to Kennedy Space Center is 2,200 miles.

Landing Convoy Lines Up
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:52:14 PM EDT

With Discovery and its seven astronauts on their way back to Kennedy, the landing convoy is lining up at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The convoy's 20 to 30 specialized vehicles and units will approach Discovery following wheelstop. Convoy personnel will work to make sure Discovery is safe and ready for towing to a nearby orbiter processing facility. They'll also help the crew out of the crew module and into the waiting crew transport vehicle.

Discovery Begins Roll Schedule
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:50:37 PM EDT

Discovery is rolling 80 degrees to the right in the first of four steep banks designed to use up excess energy and reduce the orbiter's forward speed. This first roll will be followed by a series of three roll reversals. As the atmospheric pressure increases, the orbiter's elevons, body flap and rudder speed brake panels take over steering. Range to Kennedy Space Center 2,900 miles.

Discovery Encounters Earth's Atmosphere
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:42:58 PM EDT

Gliding just below 400,000 feet, Discovery has reached entry interface and is beginning to slow down as it passes through Earth's atmosphere. The astronauts will feel the faint pull of gravity begin to build up as they continue their descent.

Discovery Approaching Entry Interface
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:37:45 PM EDT

Discovery is oriented with wings level and nose angled upward 40 degrees as it approaches "entry interface," the point at which the vehicle begins to encounter the upper levels of Earth's atmosphere.

All Three APUs Up and Running
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:30:43 PM EDT

Discovery's three auxiliary power units are up and running. The trio of auxiliary power units provide hydraulic pressure to the shuttle's aerosurfaces, landing gear, main landing gear brakes and nose wheel steering.

45 Minutes Until Touchdown
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:29:47 PM EDT

Discovery is expected to arrive at Kennedy Space Center in 45 minutes.

One Hour Until Touchdown
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:14:17 PM EDT

With the deorbit burn complete, Discovery is headed for touchdown on Kennedy Space Center's Runway 15 at 3:14 p.m. EDT, one hour from now.

Burn Complete: Discovery is Coming Home
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:11:47 PM EDT

Discovery's OMS engines shut down right on time, completing a perfect deorbit burn with no trim required. Archambault and Antonelli will rotate Discovery back into a forward-facing orientation, with the vehicle angled so its underside will absorb the heat of re-entry. One hour until touchdown on Kennedy Space Center's Runway 15.

Deorbit Burn Begins
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:08:49 PM EDT

The deorbit burn is under way. Discovery's OMS engines will fire for two minutes and 59 seconds, enough to reduce Discovery's speed by 339 feet per second. Stand by for completion of the burn.

Discovery in Position for Deorbit Burn
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:06:52 PM EDT

Two minutes until the deorbit burn. During the burn, Discovery's two orbital maneuvering system, or OMS, engines will fire into the direction of travel, slowing the orbiter just enough to begin the descent back to Earth.

Crew Prepares for Florida Homecoming
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 01:59:41 PM EDT

Deorbit burn is set for 2:08 p.m., 10 minutes from now. In orbit, Commander Lee Archambault and the rest of the STS-119 astronauts have prepared themselves and Discovery for the return to Kennedy. The payload bay doors were closed this morning and the orbiter's flight computer was transitioned to the deorbit-and-entry software package, known as "OPS 3."

The astronauts are dressed and seated just as they were for liftoff two weeks ago. On Discovery's flight deck, Commander Archambault and Pilot Tony Antonelli are seated in Seats 1 and 2, with Mission Specialists Joseph Acaba and Steve Swanson behind them in Seats 3 and 4. Below them on the middeck are Mission Specialists Richard Arnold, Sandra Magnus and John Phillips in Seats 5, 6 and 7, respectively. Magnus is returning to Earth after spending more than four months on the International Space Station.

Go for the Deorbit Burn!
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 01:56:43 PM EDT

Discovery is "go" for the deorbit burn. The flight crew just received the good news from astronaut George Zamka, serving as Mission Control's capsule communicator, or CAPCOM. Landing site weather is observed "go" and forecast "go."

Discovery Aims for Landing Today
Sat, 28 Mar 2009 01:44:06 PM EDT

Space shuttle Discovery and the STS-119 crew are due back at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida this afternoon, wrapping up a 13-day assembly mission to the International Space Station.

Managers opted to skip today's first landing opportunity due to weather concerns. A second landing opportunity is available at 3:14 p.m. The deorbit burn to begin Discovery's return to Earth is scheduled for 2:08 p.m.

Astronaut Brent Jett is flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft at Kennedy, evaluating and reporting the weather conditions at the landing site. Meanwhile, the Spaceflight Meteorology Group is observing a shift in wind direction due to the developing sea breeze. The weather trends are improving, and flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston are expected to make the "go/no-go" decision on the deorbit burn in about 15 minutes.

Stay with NASA's Landing Blog for the latest from Kennedy Space Center