Witness the Epic Launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis

🚀Space shuttle Atlantis launch is a spectacular event, showcasing the incredible power and technology of human spaceflight.

🌍The space shuttle Atlantis is heading to the International Space Station to deliver a mini research module, furthering scientific exploration and knowledge.

⏰During the launch, the fully fueled shuttle weighed four and a half million pounds and burned half of its weight in propellent.

📷The crew quickly captures photographs and videos of the external tank after separation, providing valuable data for analysis.

💨Tumble jets on the external tank cause it to flip end over end, ensuring safe reentry and disintegration in the Earth's atmosphere.

What is the purpose of the space shuttle Atlantis launch?

—The space shuttle Atlantis is heading to the International Space Station to deliver a mini research module, allowing for further scientific exploration and knowledge.

How much did the fully fueled shuttle weigh at liftoff?

—The fully fueled space shuttle Atlantis weighed four and a half million pounds at liftoff.

What happens to the external tank after separation from the shuttle?

—After separation, the external tank disintegrates in the Earth's atmosphere, aided by tumble jets that cause it to flip end over end.

Why do the crew members capture photos and videos of the external tank after separation?

—The crew captures photographs and videos to provide valuable data for analysis and ensure that the foam on the external tank remained in its proper position.

What was the purpose of the tumble jets on the external tank?

—The tumble jets on the external tank help it break up as expected during reentry into the Earth's atmosphere.

01:05Final inspection team and close out crew enter the pad.

02:06Final inspection team completes their work and rolls back to AB11.

08:04Launch director clears the launch.

09:23Space shuttle Atlantis lifts off, reaching a speed of 2,500 miles per hour.

15:54Booster separation is confirmed.

17:22Space shuttle Atlantis reaches 'ludicrous speed'.

18:46Space shuttle Atlantis reaches an altitude of 64 miles.

19:01Main engine cutoff confirmed, and separation from the external fuel tank.