Atlantis to launch 7 February with Columbus lab
Matt Brown
Monday, 04 February 2008 16:17 UTC
Space Shuttle Atlantis looks finally set to blast off this week, after a two month delay (although foul weather might prolong the wait).
Onboard is the Columbus laboratory, a European-built module and the second lab for the International Space Station.
It is only one room, but Europe will finally have a manned base in space.
Is it worth the money (nearly £1 billion)?
What research should be prioritised there?
Should Europe take on a greater role in the space station, now that many of the station partners are refocussing on the moon and Mars?
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And we’re away. Despite fears of poor weather, the 121st space shuttle mission has blasted off from Florida.
Three small pieces of foam broak away during the flight – a not unusual occurrence. Astronauts will inspect the craft later today for any damage.
The space shuttle will dock with the International Space Station tomorrow.
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Atlantis docked with the ISS on Saturday. In an unusual development, the first spacewalk to install the Columbus lab was postponed a day because of an undisclosed medical problem with astronaut Hans Schlegel. (Rumour has it that he’s lost his voice.)
The spacewalk is taking place right now, with a backup spacewalker.
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The BBC have posted some great footage of the docking here
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The first image of the station with Columbus attached. Credit, Nasa.
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And Atlantis is safely back on the ground
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