Space Shuttle Atlantis Lands Safely In Florida

The most recent mission of the Space Shuttle ended earlier today when Atlantis landed in Florida.

This is the last Space Shuttle flight for 2009.  The last scheduled flight of a Space Shuttle is scheduled to take place in mid 2010.

The Space Shuttle took parts and supplies to the International Space Station, helping it to be prepared for 5-10 years of continuing operation.  This will ensure the space station stays in operation even after the shuttle fleet is grounded.

When I was a small child, my father allowed me to stay at home and watch the Space Shuttle Columbia take its first flight in 1981.  Afterwards, I received my first “tardy” when I arrived late for my kindergarten class.  My mother was furious at my father for this, but he felt the historical significance of the launch made it worthwhile.  (Plus, as a little boy, watching a shuttle blast off was pretty cool from my point of view!)

I am now watching the end of Space Shuttle flights while remembering the excitement of being able to watch it from its beginnings.

Will space exploration capture the imagination of future generations of Americans?  We shall have to wait and see…