STS 117

Space Shuttle Atlantis launched on STS 117 last evening. The main objective of this mission will be to install and activate another set of solar panels on the International Space Station. The panels will increase the station's power production in time for the laboratory modules to be attached later this year and sometime before the end of 2010. The lab modules will support research into the life sciences, strengthening ISS's claim as a place to conduct experiments that will help shape the 21st century.

The launch seemed perfect, but upon examining Atlantis after it had reached orbit NASA found a torn piece of the tiles that protect the ship from the blowtorch heat of reentry. Because the problem is in an area not exposed to the greatest heat, NASA is currently saying the tear shouldn't pose a danger in bringing Atlantis home.

We all hope that analysis holds and proves accurate, but it's also fair to note the shuttle fleet is aging. Completing the construction of ISS is the only reason we still fly shuttles regularly. The United States made the commitment to its partners in the ISS program that it would finish construction of the station before retiring the shuttles. Nations should cstand by such promises, but if another orbiter is lost, that would almost certainly end the shuttle era, whether ISS is finished or not.