Space Shuttle Discovery launched on STS-96, which was a groundbreaking mission as it was the first to successfully dock with the International Space Station. The launch occurred from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, heralding a new chapter in human spaceflight and international collaboration. This mission's objectives included delivering various supplies and equipment for the ongoing construction of the ISS. Although the ISS was still in its early stages, the mission helped establish a precedent for future shuttle and ISS missions that would solidify the importance of working together in low Earth orbit.

The crew, commanded by Charles D. Gemar, included five other astronauts: pilot Scott J. Kelly, payload commander Daniel Tani, mission specialists Julie A. Payette, Chris Hadfield, and mission specialist and flight engineer Koichi Wakata from Japan. Each member played a significant role in the mission, aimed at making sure the docking procedures were effective and efficient. The mission lasted approximately 10 days and was meticulously planned to support constructing the ISS, showcasing the shuttle's versatility and reliability in various roles.

Highlights of STS-96 included the transfer of over 2.6 tons of critical supplies, as well as new equipment necessary for sustaining astronauts aboard the ISS. The crew used the shuttle's robotic arm to assist in the docking process, further refining the techniques that would be essential for future missions. This successful mission was a testament to the technological advancements and teamwork that characterize human space exploration.