Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-132 Mission Launch
May 14th, 2010
May 14th, 2010
How Long Ago?
14 years, 10 months ago
Location
Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA
Category
Space Exploration
People
- Naoko Yamazaki
- Kenneth C. Ham
- Tony Antonelli
- Michael A. Good
- Stephen Gerard Lindsay
- Piers Sellers
Links & References
Tags
Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-132 Mission Launch
Space Shuttle Atlantis successfully launched on the STS-132 mission from Kennedy Space Center, marking a significant milestone in the International Space Station's construction. The shuttle delivered the Rassvet module, a Russian component that enhances ISS capabilities. The launch, characterized by careful planning and coordination, was one of the last missions for Atlantis before Congress approved an additional flight, STS-135. The mission's successful execution demonstrated international collaboration in space exploration.
Rassvet enhanced ISS capabilities and research.
Atlantis conducted five spacewalks during the mission.
Crew included first Japanese woman on a shuttle.
Launch showcased international cooperation in space.
What Happened?
Space Shuttle Atlantis lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a mission known as STS-132, aimed at delivering the Russian Mini-Research Module-1 (MRM-1), called Rassvet, to the International Space Station (ISS). This mission marked a continuation of efforts to increase the station's utility and research capabilities. Rassvet was unique as it was the first Russian module to be delivered by a Space Shuttle, emphasizing the cooperative nature of ISS operations involving multiple countries. During the mission, Atlantis was crewed by six astronauts, including Commander Kenneth C. Ham, Pilot Tony Antonelli, and Mission Specialists Michael A. Good, Stephen Gerard Lindsay, Piers Sellers, and Naoko Yamazaki, the first Japanese woman to fly on a Space Shuttle. The mission included a total of five spacewalks aimed at outfitting Rassvet and performing maintenance on the space station. Following the launch, Atlantis successfully docked with the ISS, allowing astronauts to transfer equipment and establish the module’s operational readiness. The mission concluded successfully with a landing at Kennedy Space Center.
Why Does it Matter?
The launch of STS-132 is significant as it represented a major step in strengthening international partnerships in space exploration. By providing Russia with its first shuttle-launched module, the mission not only solidified America's commitment to the ISS but also paved the way for future collaborative efforts in space. This integration of international technologies and infrastructures emphasized the importance of peaceful cooperation in space and contributed to global scientific research.
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