(Washington, DC) Space Shuttle Endeavour lifted off this evening from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a mission to continue construction of the International Space Station (ISS).
Leaders of the House Committee on Science and Technology – the Committee with jurisdiction over U.S. civil space and aeronautics activity – offered the following comments on the successful launch: Committee Chairman Bart Gordon (D-TN):
“One exciting aspect of this particular mission is the inclusion of Mission Specialist Barbara Morgan, NASA’s first ‘Educator Astronaut.’ I’m a firm believer in the ability of science to inspire young minds and challenge them to achieve great feats. Barbara’s journey into space will hopefully remind students and adults alike that dreams are achievable if you work hard, study hard, and persevere.”
Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee Chairman Mark Udall (D-CO):
“I want to wish the entire crew of STS-118, including Educator-Astronaut Barbara Morgan, a safe and successful mission to the International Space Station. They have a very challenging and complex set of tasks awaiting them at the Station, but they’ve gotten off to a good start with this evening’s launch.”
Energy and Environment Subcommittee Chairman Nick Lampson (D-TX):
“I am so proud to represent Texas’s Johnson Space Center in Congress, and have the privilege today of witnessing the hard work of the good folks down there and the rest of NASA’s team as they rocket us into space once again. The latest successful shuttle launch is a testament to the dedication of best and brightest minds in our nation, and I salute NASA for yet another exemplary effort.”
NASA notes that STS-118 marks the 22nd flight to the International Space Station. It will be the first flight for Endeavour since 2002, and the first mission for Mission Specialist Barbara Morgan, the teacher-turned-astronaut whose association with NASA began more than 20 years ago. For more information about the STS-118 crew and mission to the space station, visit:
