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.