Space Shuttle Atlantis launched with Science Lab

NASA has finally launched the Space Shuttle Atlantis to the space after a delay of almost two months.

The shuttle this time is carrying with it a $2 billion science lab named Columbus for the International Space Station.

It is also carrying a crew of seven astronauts. NASA’s Launch Control said as the launch took place: “Three, two, one, zero, and liftoff of space shuttle Atlantis as Columbus sets sail on a voyage of science to the space station.”

The European Science Lab Columbus was in making for as many as 23 years and this is the major contribution from the Europe on the International Space Station.

It would now join the US Lab Destiny which was launched several years ago. NASA Administrator Michael Griffin spoke on this occasion: “Certainly, no launch can be any more momentous than the launch of Columbus, which brings to the space station truly international capability and participation.”