Space Shuttle Endeavour Launches for Mapping Mission
February 11th, 2000
February 11th, 2000

How Long Ago?
25 years, 1 month, 4 days ago
Location
Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA
Category
Space Exploration
People
- Scott J. Kelly
- Charles D. R. Camarda
- Janice E. Voss
- Miguel López-Alegría
- Daniel T. McGoodwin
Links & References
Tags
Space Shuttle Endeavour Launches for Mapping Mission
Space Shuttle Endeavour launched on mission STS-99, tasked with conducting the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). The mission aimed to create high-resolution elevation maps of Earth's land surface, which could benefit various scientific fields, including climate research and urban planning. Endeavour lifted off from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, carrying a team of astronauts and a sophisticated radar system designed to map the terrain.
Endeavour's mission lasted 11 days.
It collected data for Earth's elevation mapping.
The crew included notable astronauts.
Data supports climate and urban studies.
What Happened?
The Space Shuttle Endeavour was launched on mission STS-99 to carry out the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM), one of NASA's most significant earth science missions. The primary objective of STS-99 was to generate detailed topographical maps of the Earth, specifically to measure the changing geometry and elevation of the land. This mission was unique as it utilized a synthetic aperture radar that operated from space, allowing for the collection of three-dimensional measurements across vast areas of the planet. The technology used in the SRTM included the mapping of regions previously uncharted, enhancing global data sets, particularly in remote and inaccessible locations.Endeavour's launch occurred from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where it entered low Earth orbit to conduct a series of radar imaging sessions over various terrains. The mission was manned by a diverse crew, including notable astronauts such as Commander Charles D. R. Camarda, Pilot Scott J. Kelly, and Mission Specialists Janice E. Voss, and others. Over the course of the 11-day mission, the SRTM collected data that would contribute to various applications including land use planning, disaster response, and climate change studies. The data collected from STS-99 ultimately enhanced scientific understanding and provided vital resources for years to come.
Why Does it Matter?
The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission marked a significant advancement in remote sensing technology and Earth science. By enabling the creation of high-resolution elevation maps, the STS-99 mission facilitated extensive research in various disciplines, from environmental science to geology. The data obtained has proven invaluable for understanding Earth’s changes and assessing natural resource management, highlighting the importance of space exploration in scientific advancement.
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