Space Shuttle Atlantis Launches with Quest Airlock
July 12th, 2001
July 12th, 2001
How Long Ago?
23 years, 8 months, 2 days ago
Location
Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA
Category
Space Exploration
People
- Charles D. Gemar
- Janice E. Voss
- Scott J. Horowitz
- Yoshio K. Iwasaki
- Paul J. Weitz
Links & References
- Space Shuttle program
- Space Shuttle Atlantis
- STS-104
- Quest Joint Airlock
- International Space Station
Tags
Space Shuttle Atlantis Launches with Quest Airlock
Space Shuttle Atlantis was launched on mission STS-104, transporting the Quest Joint Airlock to the International Space Station. The launch occurred from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, marking a significant milestone in the assembly of the ISS. The Quest Joint Airlock was crucial for future spacewalks and scientific installations on the station.
Launch took place from Kennedy Space Center
Quest Airlock supported future spacewalks
Five astronauts were onboard Atlantis
STs-104 was a significant ISS assembly mission
What Happened?
Space Shuttle Atlantis launched on mission STS-104, carrying the Quest Joint Airlock to the International Space Station. This mission, which began on July 12, 2001, was integral to the development of the ISS, allowing astronauts to conduct spacewalks and exchanges between the station and visiting spacecraft. Atlantis lifted off from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, with a crew of five astronauts onboard, including experienced astronaut and flight commander Charles D. Gemar. The primary objective of this mission was to install the Quest Joint Airlock, which served as the first airlock on the ISS, enabling astronauts to perform extravehicular activities (EVAs) without depressurizing the entire station.
Why Does it Matter?
The launch of STS-104 and the installation of the Quest Joint Airlock marked a pivotal step in the International Space Station's construction and operational capabilities. This airlock allowed for increased EVA operations and supported a broad range of scientific endeavors in microgravity. Not only did this enhance ISS functionality, but it also demonstrated international cooperation in space exploration. As part of a broader narrative of space exploration, the successful deployment of Quest helped facilitate numerous upcoming missions and laid the groundwork for future innovations in human presence in space.
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