Endeavour launches with Expedition 4 crew
Space Shuttle Endeavour launched on STS-108 to transport the Expedition 4 crew, comprising Commander Yury Onufrienko, Flight Engineer Carl Walz, and Mission Specialist Daniel Tani, to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission, critical to the ongoing assembly and operation of the ISS, aimed to further expand research capabilities in orbit.
Delivered supplies to the ISS during STS-108.
Crew included Yury Onufrienko, Carl Walz, and Daniel Tani.
Mission lasted approximately 11 days in space.
First flight after September 11, 2001.
What Happened?
Space Shuttle Endeavour launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, marking the STS-108 mission on December 5, 2001. This mission was important as it transported the Expedition 4 crew to the International Space Station, including three crew members: Commander Yury Onufrienko, Flight Engineer Carl Walz, and Mission Specialist Daniel Tani. During this mission, Endeavour also delivered supplies and equipment critical for the ongoing construction and operation of the ISS. The launch took place two months after the horrific events of September 11, 2001, and began as part of NASA's pivotal role in international collaboration in human spaceflight. The mission was designed to last approximately 11 days, emphasizing significant experiments and maintenance operations aboard the ISS. Endeavour's crew was set to carry out several important tasks, including the transfer of over four tons of supplies from the shuttle to the station and participating in scientific experiments aimed at understanding long-duration spaceflight. One notable aspect of STS-108 was its role in enhancing international cooperation in space, as it involved astronauts from Russia, the United States, and Italy, showcasing the collaborative spirit integral to the ISS program. Following a successful launch, Endeavour journeyed to the ISS where the Expedition 3 crew was still active. The crew members of Expedition 4 took over operations upon arrival, which included conducting life science experiments and technology demonstrations. This mission helped progress NASA’s vision for a permanently inhabited space station, ultimately laying the groundwork for future long-term missions and research opportunities in low Earth orbit.
Why Does it Matter?
The launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-108 is significant for its role in expanding human presence in space through the International Space Station program. This mission highlighted the importance of international collaboration in space exploration and paved the way for continuous human habitation in low Earth orbit, expanding scientific research capabilities.