Atlantis Launches with Destiny Laboratory Module
February 7th, 2001
February 7th, 2001

How Long Ago?
24 years, 1 month, 8 days ago
Location
Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA
Category
Space Exploration
People
- Janice Voss
- Kenneth Cockrell
- Charles Hobaugh
- Robert Curbeam
- Thomas Jones
Links & References
Tags
Atlantis Launches with Destiny Laboratory Module
Space Shuttle Atlantis was launched on mission STS-98, carrying the Destiny laboratory module to the International Space Station (ISS). This mission marked a significant step in the assembly and expansion of the ISS, providing critical research capabilities in microgravity. The launch occurred from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, highlighting NASA's commitment to advancing scientific exploration. The crew of STS-98 included commander Kenneth Cockrell and pilot Charles Hobaugh, showcasing a diverse team of skilled astronauts.
Destiny was the primary U.S. research laboratory.
Crew performed spacewalks for module installation.
Mission enhanced ISS capabilities for scientific research.
International collaboration marked key aspect of the mission.
What Happened?
Space Shuttle Atlantis launched on mission STS-98, delivering the Destiny laboratory module to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission lifted off from Kennedy Space Center in Florida and was a significant milestone for NASA as it enhanced the ISS's capabilities for scientific research. Destiny served as the U.S. laboratory aboard the station and provided facilities for various experiments in a microgravity environment. The mission involved a carefully planned schedule for the assembly and integration of the module into the ISS, which was essential for progressing in long-duration space missions and studies. The astronauts worked extensively on tasks related to the installation and activation of Destiny, ensuring it was operational for ensuing research projects.
Commander Kenneth Cockrell led the diverse crew, which included pilot Charles Hobaugh, mission specialists Robert Curbeam, Thomas Jones, and Janice Voss. This mission was particularly notable for its collaboration among multiple international space agencies, highlighting the global effort in human space exploration. Atlantis successfully docked with the ISS, allowing the crew to conduct extravehicular activities (EVAs) to assist in the installation of Destiny and other equipment necessary for future missions to the ISS. The importance of enhancing the ISS’s habitability and scientific research potential was underscored through this mission, as it supported a variety of domains including biology, physics, and materials science.
Overall, STS-98 represented not only a technical achievement but also a demonstration of international cooperation, as various countries contributed to the research conducted aboard Destiny. The insertion of the Destiny laboratory module marked the U.S.’s commitment to being a forefront partner in global space exploration efforts. The successful execution of the mission helped set the stage for future ISS assemblies and long-term human presence in low Earth orbit, paving the way for deeper space exploration.
Why Does it Matter?
The launch of Atlantis with the Destiny laboratory module significantly advanced human space exploration. It highlighted NASA's role in international collaboration for scientific research. This mission contributed to the ISS’s capability for diverse experiments, enabling future studies crucial for long-duration space missions.
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