Farewell Discovery, and We Thank You

 

“And, Houston, Discovery, for the final time, wheels stop,” Shuttle Commander Steven Lindsey announced over the radio as the Space Shuttle Discovery coasted to a stop after a perfect  touch down on the tarmac at the Kennedy Space Center, signaling the beginning of the end of an era.

Discovery deployed the Hubble Space Telescope, which went on to become one of the most successful scientific instruments of all time, not only because of the wealth of data derived from it, but also because of its ability to capture images that truly captured the public’s imagination.

Discovery picked up the pieces after the loss of the Challenger, being the first return flight after the hiatus.  It was also the first shuttle to return to space after the loss of the Columbia.  It was the first shuttle to fly with a female pilot (Eileen Collins), was the last shuttle to dock with MIR, and returned a national hero from the glory days of the space program, John Glenn, to outer space.

Discovery played a vital role in the construction and supply of the International Space Station, and it launched several satellites and scientific instruments.

In total, Discovery flew 39 missions, more than any other in the fleet.  It also logged the most time in space, a full 365 days, and the longest distance traveled while in orbit, 149 million miles – a trip to the sun and halfway back.

After decommissioning, Discovery will be taken to the Smithsonian Institute where it will be put on display as a lasting reminder to us all of what is possible.  Even its name – Discovery – leaves us with a lasting legacy.

Image Credit: NASA via Wikipedia