Space Shuttle Endeavour Launches for Mapping Mission

February 11th, 2000

February 11th, 2000

Space Shuttle Endeavour Launches for Mapping Mission
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.

Discover More Historic Events from February 11th

Politics & Government

Alexander Stubb Elected as Finland's President

February 11th, 2024 1 years ago

Alexander Stubb has been elected as the 13th President of Finland after a competitive election held in February. The former Prime Minister received significant support from centrist and conservative voters, securing his position in response to ongoing global and domestic challenges. His campaign focused on sustainability, economic growth, and Finland's position in the European Union, reflecting a modern vision for the nation's future. Voter turnout was notably high, indicating strong public engagement in Finland's political landscape.

Continue Reading
Health & Medicine

WHO Names Coronavirus as COVID-19

February 11th, 2020 5 years ago

The World Health Organization designated the new coronavirus outbreak as COVID-19 and named the virus SARS-CoV-2, marking a critical step in understanding and combating the virus. This announcement aimed to standardize the terminology to prevent stigma. The name COVID-19 was derived from 'coronavirus disease 2019' and highlighted the urgency for global response and public awareness. The decision reflected ongoing developments in the outbreak that originated in Wuhan, China, which had rapidly spread worldwide, necessitating coordinated international action.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Saratov Airlines Flight 703 crash near Moscow

February 11th, 2018 7 years ago

Saratov Airlines Flight 703 crashed in Russia, resulting in 71 fatalities, all passengers and crew onboard. The incident involved a Antonov An-148 aircraft which went down shortly after takeoff from Domodedovo International Airport. Bad weather conditions and potential human error were cited as contributing factors to the crash.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

North Korea's Ballistic Missile Test

February 11th, 2017 8 years ago

North Korea launched a ballistic missile that traveled approximately 500 kilometers before landing in the Sea of Japan, showcasing its advancing missile capabilities and defiance against international sanctions.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Shooting Incident at Jizan Education Center

February 11th, 2016 9 years ago

A man opened fire at an education center in Jizan Province, killing seven people and injuring several others. The shooter, identified as a local resident, targeted individuals at the institution, leading to chaos and fear among those present. Authorities quickly responded to the incident, attempting to control the situation while ambulances transported the wounded to nearby hospitals. The motive behind the attack remained unclear in the immediate aftermath, prompting investigations into the shooter's background and potential grievances.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Nationwide Protests Erupt After Student's Murder

February 11th, 2015 10 years ago

A university student was murdered while resisting an attempted rape, leading to widespread protests across Turkey. The victim's death ignited a national conversation about violence against women and inadequate responses to harassment. Activists, students, and everyday citizens took to the streets to honor her memory and demand justice, as well as systemic changes in laws and societal attitudes towards women's safety.

Continue Reading