Godspeed Atlantis

As I write these words, the launch sequencer called for a hold at the last minute before the final space shuttle launch. This, only seconds before launch.

The suspense for me is huge. The shuttle is an amazing and very dangerous vehicle. The countdown has resumed.

Chris Ferguson, from my current home town of Philadelphia is in command. Seems to be go for launch. Engines are burning. Liftoff!

Okay after full throttle up. SRB ready to separate. Less than 6 minutes to orbit. Everything looks good. I certainly feel relief now that those necessary but scary SRBs have done their job and been jettisoned.

Now 4 minutes, 20 seconds into the flight. Will hook up with ISS on Sunday morning. All is going well. Making it look easy. (It isn’t.)

About 2 minutes to orbit. Main engines will be shuttling down, shortly. External fuel tank will be let go after that.

Main engine cut off. (MECO). External tank is gone, as required. Should be in orbit shortly. I can breath (relatively) easier…at least until landing day.