NASA’s fleet of Space Shuttles have made possible hundreds of missions, scientific studies, and construction of the International Space Station.  First launched in 1981, the shuttles have ventured into space over 120 times, bringing both wonder and tradegy into the rich history of NASA.

Under the Bush Administration, the remaining three operational shuttles, Endeavor, Atlantis, and Discovery, were slated for mandatory retirement by 2010, aligning with the planned completion of the International Space Station.  Construction of NASA’s replacement, the Orion spacecraft, will not be complete until 2015.  NASA astronauts will use Russian and privately owned spacecraft in the interim.

The countdown to the space ships’ retirement has started, with only eight missions to go.  The distinctive image of these fabulous works of human ingenuity will definitely stick in the hearts of minds of millions of Americans.

NASA’s site for the Space Shuttle Program: www.nasa.gov/shuttle