KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - As smoke and steam billows across the ground, Space Shuttle Discovery leaps free and rockets into the clear blue sky, creating its own fireworks display. History was made with the first ever launch on Independence Day. It was the third launch attempt in four days; the others were scrubbed due to weather concerns. Liftoff was on-time at 2:38 p.m. EDT. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew of seven will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. Landing is scheduled for July 16 or 17 at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility. Photo courtesy of Nikon/Scott Andrews
Location Kennedy Space Center, FL
Date July 4, 2006