On December 9, 2006, the shuttle Discovery finally launched off its platform and went into orbit after being delayed two days because of low cloud cover. All the checks were clear, and all systems were ready. Everything reached the proper temperatures, and everything was ready to go. The on board computers were set with complete control of all fuel cells and main engines. It sped up and passed supersonic speed. The solid rocket boosters came off just fine, which was good news considering that was where Challenger had its problem.
The takeoff was a success! All it had to do was reach the orbit. It was close enough to get a lower orbit than planned but still safe. Then, it reached its desired orbit!
This was a fantastic launch. Nothing went wrong, and Discovery ended up exactly where it was supposed to. This is a major success since this was the first night shuttle launch in four years. If I understand correctly (I'm not used to all of this scientific jargon) this is mission STS-116. It is continuing the assembly of the International Space Station (ISS).
The primary mission objective is to deliver and install the Port 5 (P5) truss element. It will extend the left side of the overall truss. A truss is just something that is used to extend say the arm or solar panels. The P5 installation will be conducted during the first of three planned spacewalks, and will involve use of both the shuttle and ISS robotic arms.
The remainder of the mission will include a major reconfiguration and activation of the ISS electrical and thermal control systems, as well as delivery of Service Module Debris Panels, which will increase ISS protection from potential impacts of micro-meteorites and orbital debris. In addition, a single expedition crew member, Sunita Williams, launched on STS-116 will remain on board ISS, replacing an expedition crew member,Thomas Reiter, who will fly home with the shuttle crew.
This is the most racially diverse crew. It includes a Swede, two black astronauts, one of Indian decent, one British, an Alaskan, and an American New Jersey guy. The spacewalks will be done by Robert Curbeam. This is a very memorable trip. It contains the first Swede in space, and it is rewiring the ISS to a permanent power source instead of a temporary one.
Watching replays of this launch from farther back than first filmed shows the beauty of the fire flying into the dark sky, breaking through the heavens to a world seen by only a few. Did you watch this launch? Did you understand anything I said? Would you like to tell us anything in the BBS? I'll be there!
Your scientist (worrying about how boring this article is),
MysticP
