The program started just over 30 years ago, in April 1981, with the launch of the first space shuttle, Columbia. Followed by Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis and Endeavour.
There have been 134 space shuttle missions. Today will see the launch of the 135th space shuttle mission. It truely has been a remarkable time for exploration, technology and human spirit.
The last mission is a 12 day mission to the International Space Station with supplies and spare parts. Upon it's return, Atlantis will be the last Space Shuttle to land, knowing it nor either of the two surviving shuttles, Discovery and Endeavour, will never take to the skies or the heavens again!
Here's wishing the Atlantis crew Godspeed and a safe return.
Some othe NASA resources worth a visit:
As the Altantis crew get ready for their mission, they took some time out to discuss what's next for NASA.... The Journey Continues .... http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/videogallery/index.html?media_id=100229421
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/index.html
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/flyout/index.html
https://www.facebook.com/nasa2explore
If you are wondering why some countdown clocks are showing less time than others, have a look at this Countdown 101 page which helps explain the differences.
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