Endeavour launches to retrieve EURECA satellite
June 21st, 1993
June 21st, 1993

How Long Ago?
31 years, 8 months, 22 days ago
Location
Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA
Category
Space Exploration
People
- Charles D. Gemar
- John M. Lounge
- John Lounge
- Franklin Chang-Diaz
- Daniel Brandenstein
Links & References
Tags
Endeavour launches to retrieve EURECA satellite
Space Shuttle Endeavour launched on STS-57 to retrieve the European Retrievable Carrier (EURECA) satellite. This mission marked the first time the Spacehab module was carried on a shuttle. The shuttle took off from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, embarking on an important mission for international space collaboration. Astronauts conducted experiments in a variety of scientific fields during their time in orbit, showcasing the multifunctional capabilities of the shuttle.
STS-57 was the 57th shuttle mission ever.
EURECA was launched by the European Space Agency.
First flight of the Spacehab module for experiments.
The mission lasted nearly ten days in space.
What Happened?
The Space Shuttle Endeavour was launched on mission STS-57, marking a significant achievement in space exploration and international partnership in research. This particular mission, which launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, was notable for retrieving the European Retrievable Carrier (EURECA) satellite, emphasizing cooperation in space technology between the United States and Europe. EURECA was designed to carry a suite of experiments and, after completing its science objectives, was intended to be retrieved by the shuttle for data recovery and analysis. In addition to its primary mission, STS-57 was the inaugural flight for the Spacehab module, which expanded the capabilities of the Space Shuttle by providing additional laboratory space for scientific experiments in microgravity.The STS-57 mission included a crew of seven astronauts: John Lounge, Daniel Brandenstein, Charles D. Gemar, John M. Lounge, Franklin Chang-Diaz, and this mission showcased a variety of scientific research initiatives during its nearly ten-day stay in space. The shuttle’s robotic arm was used to capture EURECA, and once onboard, astronauts transferred the satellite to the Spacehab module for analysis. Throughout the mission, astronauts conducted multiple experiments in areas including biology, materials science, and fluid physics, fundamentally contributing to the understanding of scientific principles in microgravity environments.
Why Does it Matter?
The launch of Endeavour on STS-57 is significant because it represented the deepening collaboration between the United States and Europe in the domain of space exploration and research. The successful retrieval of EURECA marked an essential step in the utilization of international resources for scientific advancement. Furthermore, the inclusion of the Spacehab module illustrated a shift in the shuttle program's utility, allowing for more complex and varied payloads, thereby broadening the scope of potential science missions for future flights.
Discover More Historic Events from June 21st
Migrants' boat capsizes in Indian Ocean
A boat carrying over 200 migrants capsized in the Indian Ocean, between Java and Christmas Island, resulting in 17 confirmed fatalities and 70 individuals missing. The overcrowded vessel was attempting to reach Australian shores, sparking discussions about refugee policies and maritime safety. Survivors reported perilous conditions on board, emphasizing the risks taken by migrants seeking better lives.
Continue ReadingFokker F27 Friendship Crash in Indonesia
An Indonesian Air Force Fokker F27 Friendship aircraft crashed near Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport, resulting in the loss of 11 lives. The incident occurred during a training flight, reportedly due to bad weather conditions. Rescuers reached the crash site, only to confirm the tragic outcome. Eyewitnesses noted the aircraft's struggle before the crash.
Continue ReadingGreenland Gains Greater Self-Governance Power
Greenland's self-rule act was officially enacted, transferring significant powers from Denmark to Greenlandic authorities. This milestone enabled local governance in various areas such as natural resources, education, and fisheries, thereby enhancing Greenland's autonomy. Prominent figures, including Greenland's then-Prime Minister Hans Enoksen, celebrated the agreement, which had been a long-standing ambition of the Greenlandic people. This rollout marked an important chapter in Greenland's political landscape, empowering its residents to have a greater say in their own governance and future.
Continue ReadingFatal Yeti Airlines Twin Otter Crash in Nepal
A Yeti Airlines de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter crashed at Jumla Airport in Nepal, resulting in the deaths of nine individuals aboard. The aircraft, a popular choice for regional flights in mountainous areas, was making its approach to the airport when it encountered adverse weather conditions. Difficult terrain and limited visibility contributed to the mishap, highlighting the challenges faced by pilots operating in Nepal's rugged landscape.
Continue ReadingPluto's Moons Nix and Hydra Are Named
NASA announced the official names of two newly discovered moons of Pluto: Nix and Hydra. The names were chosen through a public poll conducted by the space agency, highlighting the playful and mythological attributes of the celestial bodies. Nix, named after the Greek goddess of night, and Hydra, named after the multi-headed serpent from mythology, reflect the character of Pluto's intriguing system within our solar system. The announcement added excitement as it furthered understanding of Pluto's complex nature.
Continue ReadingEdgar Ray Killen Convicted of Manslaughter
Edgar Ray Killen was convicted of manslaughter for his involvement in the 1964 murders of civil rights workers James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Mickey Schwerner. This landmark conviction came after the case was reopened in 2004, drawing national attention to the historical racial violence in Mississippi. Killen, a former Ku Klux Klan leader, had previously been tried twice in the 1960s but was acquitted both times. The jury deliberated for only 40 minutes before reaching a guilty verdict, reflecting the changing attitudes towards civil rights and justice over the decades.
Continue Reading