STS-122 Cheerleading Thread

STS-122 Cheerleading Thread by ShuttleDiscovery on 27 Nov, 2007 12:52
With less than 10 days 'till launch, maybe now's a good time to start posting your cheers!
#1 by scott6428 on 27 Nov, 2007 13:01
I'll be flying down to watch this launch, so yes I'll cheer, I'll cheer the ISS crew and the KSC people that have kept the launch on target.
#2 by ShuttleDiscovery on 27 Nov, 2007 13:58
GO ATLANTIS!!!

The whole of europe as been waiting for this moment for years now, and it's great to see more and more ESA astronauts flying (this would make 5 in 2006/7!)

It will also be great to see the first non-US/Russian module joined to the ISS and the first lab since Destiny in 2001!!

9 days and counting.....
#3 by wannamoonbase on 27 Nov, 2007 16:16
The last year has been productive for the ISS as its appearance has changed considerably with the new solar panels and node and now for the labs that will add a new dimension.

After so many years of waiting it is finally happening.

I hope the rest of the shuttle manifest goes as smoothly as the last couple of launches.

Best wishes to NASA and ESA on this mission.
#4 by trlstyle on 27 Nov, 2007 18:41
Atlantis has always been my favorite orbiter, GO ATLANTIS, GOODLUCK AND GODSPEED!
#5 by Bret on 27 Nov, 2007 18:43
Think how excited we all were to see Harmony installed -- and that was just a plain ol' pressurized node. Now we've got a state-of-the-art flying laboratory going up!

Kudos to NASA and in particular to Peggy and her crew for their outstanding performance these past weeks. It has been a pleasure to watch.

Go Atlantis!
#6 by phardacre on 28 Nov, 2007 01:50
well what can i say there is only one thing to say and that is

ROGER ROLL ATLANTIS

can you guess which is my fav girl?
#7 by on 28 Nov, 2007 16:07
can't decide what shirt to wear. Have a Atlantis design shirt with STS-71 emblem and STS-74 emblem

will be driving here. Anyone driving on I-75 south throught Tennessee, North and South Carolina and proceeding south on I-95 can join my one car convoy. Thinking of taping the mission emblem on the windows
#8 by dember on 28 Nov, 2007 18:45
goodluck and godspeed Atlantis!
#9 by Mark Dave on 28 Nov, 2007 20:40
A spacegeek's dream for me.
#10 by nathan.moeller on 28 Nov, 2007 21:02
Quote
Bret - 27/11/2007 1:43 PM

Think how excited we all were to see Harmony installed -- and that was just a plain ol' pressurized node. Now we've got a state-of-the-art flying laboratory going up!

Kudos to NASA and in particular to Peggy and her crew for their outstanding performance these past weeks. It has been a pleasure to watch.

Go Atlantis!

Don't downplay Harmony's role in the assembly sequence. It's the foundation for all those 'state-of-the-art' labs that are going up It's quite state of the art itself!
#11 by nathan.moeller on 29 Nov, 2007 04:51
This sounds bad, but I really hope they delay to Friday and here's why...

My Construction 3 final exam is at 3:30 CST on Thursday. Atlantis is supposed to launch at 3:32 CST.
#12 by wannamoonbase on 29 Nov, 2007 14:31
7 days till go time. From here on out I get more excited each day I wake up.

I would love to see it go Thursday the first second the window is open. But if it scrubs till Saturday then I can drive down and watch.

GO ATLANTIS!

GO COLUMBUS!
#13 by ShuttleDiscovery on 29 Nov, 2007 16:57
Quote
nathan.moeller - 29/11/2007 5:51 AM

This sounds bad, but I really hope they delay to Friday and here's why...

My Construction 3 final exam is at 3:30 CST on Thursday. Atlantis is supposed to launch at 3:32 CST.

Aww, you poor thing!

I'll be alright as (i think) it is lauching 9.30pm UK time. Is this correct??
#14 by Colds7ream on 29 Nov, 2007 17:23
Quote
ShuttleDiscovery - 29/11/2007 5:57 PM
I'll be alright as (i think) it is lauching 9.30pm UK time. Is this correct??

As far as I understand it, yes!
#15 by aquarius on 29 Nov, 2007 17:26
I wrote a poem about the upcoming mission. Here it is:

On the launch pad 39A,
Columbus sits in the payload bay.
The count is on, the sky is clear,
For the final liftoff of the year.
Stephen, Alan, Leo, Stan,
They will make it, sure they can.
Hans is ready, so is Rex,
Leland making final checks.
This time it´s real, it´s not a test,
Let´s wish the shuttle crew the best!
#16 by spaceshuttle on 29 Nov, 2007 17:32
Quote
aquarius - 29/11/2007 12:26 PM

I wrote a poem about the upcoming mission. Here it is:

On the launch pad 39A,
Columbus sits in the payload bay.
The count is on, the sky is clear,
For the final liftoff of the year.
Stephen, Alan, Leo, Stan,
They will make it, sure they can.
Hans is ready, so is Rex,
Leland making final checks.
This time it´s real, it´s not a test,
Let´s wish the shuttle crew the best!

That was TITE!!!! Man, I love it!

TEAM 122!!!!
#17 by nathan.moeller on 29 Nov, 2007 19:41
Haha Aquarius that made my afternoon my friend. We need to get that to them on launch day and send it off with them for good luck
#18 by nathan.moeller on 29 Nov, 2007 19:44
Quote
ShuttleDiscovery - 29/11/2007 11:57 AM

Quote
nathan.moeller - 29/11/2007 5:51 AM

This sounds bad, but I really hope they delay to Friday and here's why...

My Construction 3 final exam is at 3:30 CST on Thursday. Atlantis is supposed to launch at 3:32 CST.

Aww, you poor thing!

I'll be alright as (i think) it is lauching 9.30pm UK time. Is this correct??

I'll see if I can show up late. The best case (for me) would be for them to delay a day or so. But yes, launch time is 9:32 pm UK (you're six hours ahead of CST (me) and five hours ahead of EST (Florida)).
#19 by ShuttleDiscovery on 29 Nov, 2007 21:07
Thanks for confirming that!
#20 by Bret on 29 Nov, 2007 21:21
Quote
nathan.moeller - 28/11/2007 11:51 PM

This sounds bad, but I really hope they delay to Friday and here's why...

My Construction 3 final exam is at 3:30 CST on Thursday. Atlantis is supposed to launch at 3:32 CST.

Three words for you Nathan: SKIP THE EXAM!!!
#21 by nathan.moeller on 29 Nov, 2007 21:22
Quote
Bret - 29/11/2007 4:21 PM

Quote
nathan.moeller - 28/11/2007 11:51 PM

This sounds bad, but I really hope they delay to Friday and here's why...

My Construction 3 final exam is at 3:30 CST on Thursday. Atlantis is supposed to launch at 3:32 CST.

Three words for you Nathan: SKIP THE EXAM!!!

Unfortunately, those three words lead to another set of three words - FAIL THE CLASS
#22 by spaceshuttle on 30 Nov, 2007 06:04
Quote
nathan.moeller - 29/11/2007 4:22 PM

Quote
Bret - 29/11/2007 4:21 PM

Quote
nathan.moeller - 28/11/2007 11:51 PM

This sounds bad, but I really hope they delay to Friday and here's why...

My Construction 3 final exam is at 3:30 CST on Thursday. Atlantis is supposed to launch at 3:32 CST.

Three words for you Nathan: SKIP THE EXAM!!!

Unfortunately, those three words lead to another set of three words - FAIL THE CLASS

We're talking about college. Three more words: take that test.

There's always John44.
#23 by Andrewwski on 01 Dec, 2007 00:53
OK...FRR's concluded, I can start getting excited now!

Go Atlantis!
#24 by nathan.moeller on 01 Dec, 2007 06:09
Quote
spaceshuttle - 30/11/2007 1:04 AM

Quote
nathan.moeller - 29/11/2007 4:22 PM

Quote
Bret - 29/11/2007 4:21 PM

Quote
nathan.moeller - 28/11/2007 11:51 PM

This sounds bad, but I really hope they delay to Friday and here's why...

My Construction 3 final exam is at 3:30 CST on Thursday. Atlantis is supposed to launch at 3:32 CST.

Three words for you Nathan: SKIP THE EXAM!!!

Unfortunately, those three words lead to another set of three words - FAIL THE CLASS

We're talking about college. Three more words: take that test.

There's always John44.

Oh don't worry, I'm not going to sacrifice $1,000 and three credit hours to see a launch that I can record and watch over and over and over again later I'll definitely be in that lecture hall at 3:30 pm 12/6. I just hope they delay a day or two so I can catch the launch live.
#25 by ShuttleDiscovery on 01 Dec, 2007 21:46
Quote
aquarius - 29/11/2007 6:26 PM

I wrote a poem about the upcoming mission. Here it is:

On the launch pad 39A,
Columbus sits in the payload bay.
The count is on, the sky is clear,
For the final liftoff of the year.
Stephen, Alan, Leo, Stan,
They will make it, sure they can.
Hans is ready, so is Rex,
Leland making final checks.
This time it´s real, it´s not a test,
Let´s wish the shuttle crew the best!

Nice poem aquarius! I LOVE IT!!
#26 by aquarius on 03 Dec, 2007 18:01
Thanks for liking it, guys!
#27 by spaceshuttle on 03 Dec, 2007 18:21
Quote
aquarius - 3/12/2007 1:01 PM

Thanks for liking it, guys!

And you're welcome! TEAM 122!!!
#28 by trlstyle on 04 Dec, 2007 14:49
I have to leave my house at about 0600 to arrive at Kennedy on time. It is going to be a long day!
#29 by on 04 Dec, 2007 19:36
will be leaving residence here around 5 am and drive all day on the 5th for 6th launch. Additional challegene is snow is being predicted with one or two inch accumulation.

see ya'll there on the causeway!
#30 by Jim on 04 Dec, 2007 19:51
SPOILER NOTICE: Do not read the following, for it is full of heresy and unbelievable gall. Hide the women and children

I will be leaving work early to miss the post launch traffic
#31 by Bret on 04 Dec, 2007 21:06
Wait a sec ... did Jim just make a joke?
#32 by rvastro on 04 Dec, 2007 21:52
Have to miss being there for this one..working. Thank goodness for DVRs and NASA TV. I thought about taking the day off, but there is too much work to do before winter break.
#33 by Joffan on 04 Dec, 2007 21:55
Aaaand we're off to the races!!! Counting down for another first-time-up extended-duration mission (my prediction). Yeehaaa!

And NOT ONLY is this going to be the fourth launch this year; in the first four months of next year there should be another two launches, which would be six launches in less than twelve months. Then Hubble!! It's great to be rolling again!

Now all we need is a better replacement for the Shuttle (cough Direct).
#34 by Ford Mustang on 05 Dec, 2007 01:21
Here's to a great launch. I may or may not be here (personal reasons) for launch, but I should be here during the mission.

So.. Good luck with launch, Atlantis. Godspeed.
#35 by Jim on 05 Dec, 2007 13:28
Oh, the joy of hearing an STA shooting approaches on the day before launch
#36 by spaceshuttle on 05 Dec, 2007 14:16
Here's to the fourth and final launch of the year!

*clinks plastic wine glasses* CHEERS!

Godspeed, 122!
#37 by TNCMAXQ on 05 Dec, 2007 16:00
If I am reading the info correctly, then if liftoff occurs as planned tomorrow, it will be the first time since 1997 that there will have been no launch day scrubs or aborts during an entire calendar year! There have been delays obviously. But 2007, like 1997, will see no scrubs after the vehicle has been fueled and the crew sealed in to the spacecraft. What a remarkable accomplishment to the people on the ground. And thanks to nature for cooperating.

I am so glad I got to see the launches of 117 and 118 earlier this year. They were extraordinary. I will be back at KSC some time in 2008!
#38 by nathan.moeller on 05 Dec, 2007 16:07
Quote
TNCMAXQ - 5/12/2007 11:00 AM

If I am reading the info correctly, then if liftoff occurs as planned tomorrow, it will be the first time since 1997 that there will have been no launch day scrubs or aborts during an entire calendar year! There have been delays obviously. But 2007, like 1997, will see no scrubs after the vehicle has been fueled and the crew sealed in to the spacecraft. What a remarkable accomplishment to the people on the ground. And thanks to nature for cooperating.

I am so glad I got to see the launches of 117 and 118 earlier this year. They were extraordinary. I will be back at KSC some time in 2008!

As cool as that sounds, I honestly hope that streak breaks tomorrow so I can watch it live
#39 by MKremer on 05 Dec, 2007 16:08
Bite your tongue. Hard.
#40 by ChrisGebhardt on 05 Dec, 2007 16:48
Here's to a great launch tomorrow! The best birthday gift a guy could ask for!
#41 by on 05 Dec, 2007 17:03
Gosh I hate missing this launch! I'll be down there from the 18th-3rd, so here's hoping that it launches on time, but re-enters a day or two late so I can go hear the Booms!
#42 by Andrewwski on 05 Dec, 2007 20:31
That's not too unlikely.
#43 by Avron on 06 Dec, 2007 02:37
Here is to 4 times in 6 months in the same year...

Fair winds Atlantis...

and congrats to all who have worked so hard at NASA, ESA and the maybe thousands of locals on this planet to give us all this mission and its coverage.. my thanks to Chris and team
#44 by HKS on 06 Dec, 2007 08:13
Everything looks great so far!

Crossing the fingers for the fourth on-time launch this year!

Go Atlantis!
#45 by ckiki lwai on 06 Dec, 2007 08:44
GO Atlantis!
GO Columbus!

I'm proud of ESA's work and I am happy to finally see it to go to the ISS!
#46 by MATTBLAK on 06 Dec, 2007 08:49
Go Atlantis!! May the Angels ride with her and her crew from Liftoff to Wheels Stop.
#47 by Endeavour118 on 06 Dec, 2007 09:15
go atlantis!
and go columbus!
#48 by TNCMAXQ on 06 Dec, 2007 12:10
I remember Dec 6, 1972 and how excited this 8th grader was about the launch of Apollo 17. It sure was stunning when the countdown stopped at T-30 seconds. That was a first for Apollo. The counts had been so smooth up to that time. In any case I was relieved and thrilled when they lifted off early on the morning of Dec 7. Glad I could stay awake that long!

In yet another reminder of how old I am getting, I think this is the first shuttle mission where every American on board is younger than I am. Six of the seven crew members were born after I was. Time marches on.
#49 by joncz on 06 Dec, 2007 17:59
Safety first, but bummer -- I'm getting a 70degree inclination pass of ISS tonight 90 minutes after the shuttle's scheduled launch... was looking forward to seeing it chase.
#50 by Ford Mustang on 07 Dec, 2007 12:07
In a way, this is a blessing for me. I'm now able to see the launch, and help cover it, should it launch on Saturday or Sunday.

Safety first, as said though. Here's to a great Saturday launch!!
#51 by APAagent on 08 Dec, 2007 15:13
lets hope it launchs tommorrow at 3:21pm!!!
#52 by nathan.moeller on 08 Dec, 2007 15:58
Quote
Ford Mustang - 7/12/2007 7:07 AM

In a way, this is a blessing for me. I'm now able to see the launch, and help cover it, should it launch on Saturday or Sunday.

Safety first, as said though. Here's to a great Saturday launch!!

Same here. I was in the middle of a final exam during launch time on Thursday (I'm pretty sure I passed it ). Let's hope for four working ECOs tomorrow! Go Atlantis!
#53 by Ford Mustang on 08 Dec, 2007 16:16
Quote
nathan.moeller - 8/12/2007 11:58 AM

Quote
Ford Mustang - 7/12/2007 7:07 AM

In a way, this is a blessing for me. I'm now able to see the launch, and help cover it, should it launch on Saturday or Sunday.

Safety first, as said though. Here's to a great Saturday launch!!

Same here. I was in the middle of a final exam during launch time on Thursday (I'm pretty sure I passed it ). Let's hope for four working ECOs tomorrow! Go Atlantis!

Heh.. I'm hoping the same... because I have lots of exams during the next two weeks, and a launch would really help my motivation..
#54 by shuttlefan on 08 Dec, 2007 16:47
Might be another long meeting today. We might not even hear anything until about the middle of the evening. I think they will decide to tank tomorrow and hope for the best with the ECOs.
#55 by Andrewwski on 08 Dec, 2007 17:25
Well, good luck again!

Please, ECO's, work!
#56 by sam2007 on 08 Dec, 2007 17:27
Please, please, I want a launch tomorrow, too.
#57 by SpaceCat on 08 Dec, 2007 17:58
I realize this is the cheerleading thread and we don't yet have a 'grumble at the media' thread for this mission.... but I'm getting a little peeved at local (south Florida) TV stations blaming the delays on "fuel gauge problems" and presenting it as if to say 'Ford, GM and Toyota make fuel gauges work all the time but NASA can't.'
I'm all for simple explanations for the benefit of the general public-- but they're certainly using the wrong words and analogy in this case!
#58 by APAagent on 08 Dec, 2007 19:13
it better launch tommorrow!!!
#59 by punkboi on 08 Dec, 2007 19:23
Quote
APAagent - 8/12/2007 12:13 PM it better launch tommorrow!!!
I think someone here needs to go to Walgreens and buy medication for his 'Go' fever... :bleh:
#60 by apollo13 on 08 Dec, 2007 22:11
Go Atlantis!!!
#61 by el_nino on 09 Dec, 2007 02:00
I have tickets to the Eagles/Giants game tomorrow afternoon. This will be the first launch I have missed in a long time. Makes me wish there was a mobile version of this site available. GO ATLANTIS!!!!
#62 by dember on 09 Dec, 2007 03:59
The view is great!
#63 by William Graham on 09 Dec, 2007 04:09
Quote
jancarlobascu - 9/12/2007 4:45 AM

Also in this day Proton-M will Launch with Kosmos russian goverment satellites

TWO LAUNCHS !

Five, actually, if you count the two Black Brants.

The Proton and a Delta II have already launched.
#64 by ShuttleDiscovery on 09 Dec, 2007 10:39
*As Chris has said in the live update thread, any 'great news' or 'wohoo' comments should be posted here as to not clog up that thread with unecessary posts!
#65 by spaceshuttle on 09 Dec, 2007 13:34
NET January 2, 2008. Hopefully, we'll have something alongside a ball drop to kick off the new year!
#66 by TJL on 09 Dec, 2007 19:28
Even if we're a bit disappointed in not getting 4 shuttles launched this year, 2007 is the first year since 1995 in which all available orbiters in the fleet have flown.
#67 by ShuttleDiscovery on 09 Dec, 2007 20:26
Quote
TJL - 9/12/2007 8:28 PM

Even if we're a bit disappointed in not getting 4 shuttles launched this year, 2007 is the first year since 1995 in which all available orbiters in the fleet have flown.

Wow! Didn't know that. Let's look forward to a jam-packed 2008 with 6 flights!
#68 by TNCMAXQ on 09 Dec, 2007 23:59
Spaceflightnow.com says a Jan 2 launch window would open at 5:45 AM. Interesting. I think it would be dark at that time. If liftoff is delayed a little beyond Jan 2 it would remain a night launch. We haven't had a shuttle launch in darkness since 116 a year ago. I have been eager to see another one at night so perhaps I should look into making the trip now. Traveling on New Year's Day is probably not an option for me though. But if it gets pushed back to Jan 6 or so it might work out. There aren't that many more opportunities for night launches for the duration of the program.
#69 by on 10 Dec, 2007 17:13
awwww...... well, glad they didn't give in to go-fever... here's hoping they can get it off sometime before 9am on the 3rd (I fly back to Seattle around noon from Tampa... so I think 9am is prolly even cutting it close, but I'd rather miss a flight than miss a Shuttle Launch!)
#70 by spaceshuttle on 10 Dec, 2007 20:30
Quote
TNCMAXQ - 9/12/2007 6:59 PM

Spaceflightnow.com says a Jan 2 launch window would open at 5:45 AM. Interesting. I think it would be dark at that time. If liftoff is delayed a little beyond Jan 2 it would remain a night launch. We haven't had a shuttle launch in darkness since 116 a year ago. I have been eager to see another one at night so perhaps I should look into making the trip now. Traveling on New Year's Day is probably not an option for me though. But if it gets pushed back to Jan 6 or so it might work out. There aren't that many more opportunities for night launches for the duration of the program.

Really! I'm "jonesing" for a night launch.
#71 by APAagent on 13 Dec, 2007 18:08
it better launch on Jan 2nd!!!
#72 by TrueBlueWitt on 13 Dec, 2007 18:32
My kids and I have reservations in Cocoa Beach from 31st through the 3rd so keeping my fingers crossed! Could probably extend a day or two if shuttle gets delayed.. the ONLY good part about driving down is flexibility.
#73 by TrueBlueWitt on 13 Dec, 2007 18:35
Just read in Trouble shooting thread they're talking about possible Jan 7th launch Can't extend that long...
#74 by ShuttleDiscovery on 23 Dec, 2007 10:55
What is the launch time for Jan. 10 launch (approximately)?

I need to know when to get up in the morning to watch it (UK) because I've heard it's a night launch...

Thanks!
#75 by Andrewwski on 23 Dec, 2007 18:56
2:26 AM EDT I believe.
#76 by Chris Bergin on 23 Dec, 2007 19:02
Quote
ShuttleDiscovery - 23/12/2007 11:55 AM

What is the launch time for Jan. 10 launch (approximately)?

I need to know when to get up in the morning to watch it (UK) because I've heard it's a night launch...

Thanks!

Sleep in. Doubt it they'll be able to aim for Jan 10.
#77 by ShuttleDiscovery on 23 Dec, 2007 19:09
Thanks for the reply. Hope this flight won't slip too much into STS-123's schedule...
#78 by on 04 Jan, 2008 14:50
C'mon 122! please schedule launch on a weekend. Feburary 2 is sound promising. Instead of 8th...how about 9th or 16th!
#79 by TNCMAXQ on 04 Jan, 2008 14:55
I would prefer the 2nd myself. I expect to be at a conference in DC the weekend of 2/7-10. I don't want this to conflict with my following the mission. Though if the flight occurs during my conference it will bring back some bad memories. I was at this conference on 2/1/03 when Columbia didn't make it home. That was so difficult watching Fox and CNN in my hotel room that tragic morning. But I will remain positive and optimistic. 122/Atlantis will have a safe and successful mission!
#80 by Ford Mustang on 04 Feb, 2008 02:53
Congrats on the successful PLB Door closure, team.

Let's hope for a good countdown and a great launch on Thursday! :cool:
#81 by ChrisC on 04 Feb, 2008 04:33
Not to jinx it, but if this launch would just slip one day, I could make it down to see my first launch ever. We spent a week at the Cape in December trying to see the launch -- and then trying to get back home after our car broke down. Not a cheap car, either. Grrrr.

I can't leave for FL until Thursday PM. I've got k i l l e r access to KSC for this launch. C'mon, gimme a 24 hour scrub
#82 by spaceshuttle on 04 Feb, 2008 05:15
Not to be selfish, but PLEASE make this Friday!
#83 by Bubbinski on 04 Feb, 2008 05:19
Here's hoping for a successful on time launch! But if it HAS to scrub, I don't have to work on Saturday or Sunday, weekend launches are great, I can stay home and watch.
#84 by ChrisGebhardt on 04 Feb, 2008 05:22
STS-122 holds a special importance for me. This will be the first space launch I won't get to share with my dad.

My dad was the person who first got me interested in NASA and spaceflight. I remember back when I was 5 years old he took me down to Titusville to watch the maidin voyage of Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-49. It was my first in-person Shuttle launch and the first memory I have of NASA and the space program. From that time on, we went to every launch we could (or at least stepped out into our backyard) to watch the Space Shuttle or other rockets blast into the final frontier. Recently, while I was afforded the opportunity to be in Titusville for all post-Columbia Shuttle missions, my dad had to work. Nevertheless, no matter what time it was or what he was doing, we would always be on the phone during the final minutes of the countdown and through MECO. We had planned to watch Atlantis (STS-122) from Titusville in December and were looking forward to spending that quality time together.

My dad died very suddenly this past January. Despite the hard times, I plan to be down there on Thursday (or whenever Atlantis launches) to wish the crew good luck as I, and we, have done for so many missions, now. For me, this launch is for my dad.

And to the crew of Atlantis: God Speed, and the best of luck on your mission to the final frontier. Make us proud!!!
#85 by spaceshuttle on 04 Feb, 2008 08:26
Quote
Trekkie07 - 4/2/2008 12:22 AM

STS-122 holds a special importance for me. This will be the first space launch I won't get to share with my dad.

My dad was the person who first got me interested in NASA and spaceflight. I remember back when I was 5 years old he took me down to Titusville to watch the maidin voyage of Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-49. It was my first in-person Shuttle launch and the first memory I have of NASA and the space program. From that time on, we went to every launch we could (or at least stepped out into our backyard) to watch the Space Shuttle or other rockets blast into the final frontier. Recently, while I was afforded the opportunity to be in Titusville for all post-Columbia Shuttle missions, my dad had to work. Nevertheless, no matter what time it was or what he was doing, we would always be on the phone during the final minutes of the countdown and through MECO. We had planned to watch Atlantis (STS-122) from Titusville in December and were looking forward to spending that quality time together.

My dad died very suddenly this past January. Despite the hard times, I plan to be down there on Thursday (or whenever Atlantis launches) to wish the crew good luck as I, and we, have done for so many missions, now. For me, this launch is for my dad.

And to the crew of Atlantis: God Speed, and the best of luck on your mission to the final frontier. Make us proud!!!

Aw, sorry to hear that!

On a lighter note, it's kind of funny that quite a few of us are pushing (for the lack of a better word) for a scrub.
#86 by aquarius on 04 Feb, 2008 11:25
Quote
Trekkie07 - 4/2/2008 10:22 AM

STS-122 holds a special importance for me. This will be the first space launch I won't get to share with my dad.

My dad was the person who first got me interested in NASA and spaceflight. I remember back when I was 5 years old he took me down to Titusville to watch the maidin voyage of Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-49. It was my first in-person Shuttle launch and the first memory I have of NASA and the space program. From that time on, we went to every launch we could (or at least stepped out into our backyard) to watch the Space Shuttle or other rockets blast into the final frontier. Recently, while I was afforded the opportunity to be in Titusville for all post-Columbia Shuttle missions, my dad had to work. Nevertheless, no matter what time it was or what he was doing, we would always be on the phone during the final minutes of the countdown and through MECO. We had planned to watch Atlantis (STS-122) from Titusville in December and were looking forward to spending that quality time together.

My dad died very suddenly this past January. Despite the hard times, I plan to be down there on Thursday (or whenever Atlantis launches) to wish the crew good luck as I, and we, have done for so many missions, now. For me, this launch is for my dad.

And to the crew of Atlantis: God Speed, and the best of luck on your mission to the final frontier. Make us proud!!!

I´m really sorry, Chris.
#87 by ShuttleDiscovery on 04 Feb, 2008 18:48
Less than 3 days to go now! (According to the NASA clock)
#88 by Ford Mustang on 05 Feb, 2008 12:27
Launch-2 Days.

Processing going good so far, let's hope that it stays this smooth until launch!
#89 by aquarius on 05 Feb, 2008 12:40
I´ve written another one about this mission:

Here they are, two months later,
They´ve collected so much data.
They´ve installed a new connector,
The one we hope will function better.
And this time Mr. Hale
Won´t let the sensors fail.
It´ll launch on time, it just won´t slip,
Let´s wish the crew the safest trip!
And I hope it´s not too late,
For six missions in ´08!
#90 by ShuttleDiscovery on 05 Feb, 2008 13:15
That was really good!

I wonder what the crew would make of these if they saw them...
#91 by CTdave on 05 Feb, 2008 16:39
Quote
Trekkie07 - 4/2/2008 12:22 AM

STS-122 holds a special importance for me. This will be the first space launch I won't get to share with my dad.

My dad was the person who first got me interested in NASA and spaceflight. I remember back when I was 5 years old he took me down to Titusville to watch the maidin voyage of Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-49. It was my first in-person Shuttle launch and the first memory I have of NASA and the space program. From that time on, we went to every launch we could (or at least stepped out into our backyard) to watch the Space Shuttle or other rockets blast into the final frontier. Recently, while I was afforded the opportunity to be in Titusville for all post-Columbia Shuttle missions, my dad had to work. Nevertheless, no matter what time it was or what he was doing, we would always be on the phone during the final minutes of the countdown and through MECO. We had planned to watch Atlantis (STS-122) from Titusville in December and were looking forward to spending that quality time together.

My dad died very suddenly this past January. Despite the hard times, I plan to be down there on Thursday (or whenever Atlantis launches) to wish the crew good luck as I, and we, have done for so many missions, now. For me, this launch is for my dad.

And to the crew of Atlantis: God Speed, and the best of luck on your mission to the final frontier. Make us proud!!!

I'm so sorry for your loss. Rest assured that he will be there with you, cheering Atlantis along.
I will be there with my father for his first launch. He is 90 & worked for Union Carbide on several NASA contracts for the Apollo program. He has never seen a live launch of anything up till now. I have NASA vip invites for us to view the launch from the Banana Creek site.
Again, I'm sorr for your loss.
David
#92 by spaceshuttle on 05 Feb, 2008 17:07
Quote
aquarius - 5/2/2008 7:40 AM

I´ve written another one about this mission:

Here they are, two months later,
They´ve collected so much data.
They´ve installed a new connector,
The one we hope will function better.
And this time Mr. Hale
Won´t let the sensors fail.
It´ll launch on time, it just won´t slip,
Let´s wish the crew the safest trip!
And I hope it´s not too late,
For six missions in ´08!

Love 'em, love 'em, love 'em! If only there was a way for you to send these directly to NASA...
#93 by aquarius on 06 Feb, 2008 08:52
Glad you liked it!

I wish I could, Javan.
#94 by wannamoonbase on 06 Feb, 2008 13:22
Quote
CTdave - 5/2/2008 12:39 PM
I'm so sorry for your loss. Rest assured that he will be there with you, cheering Atlantis along.
I will be there with my father for his first launch. He is 90 & worked for Union Carbide on several NASA contracts for the Apollo program. He has never seen a live launch of anything up till now. I have NASA vip invites for us to view the launch from the Banana Creek site.
Again, I'm sorr for your loss.
David

CTdave, that is a great location to watch. I've seen a few launches from there and its a good view across the water.

Hopefully the show gets off right on time.

But if it slips to Saturday I am so driving down.
#95 by trlstyle on 06 Feb, 2008 15:36
Im clear for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday...i just hope if it DOES get scrubbed Thursday it is before i leave the house. Im so proud of her! (Atlantis)
#96 by 32s on 07 Feb, 2008 00:00
GO ATLANTIS STS122
#97 by MKremer on 07 Feb, 2008 03:22
Not that it means much, but, my predictions:

Weather scrub for launch today.
Transition to a full tanking test.
Tanking test confirms ECO hardware connector fix.
No foam 'issues' after drainback.
"GO" for launch tomorrow, which will be completely successful with no launch or orbiter issues.
#98 by Joffan on 07 Feb, 2008 03:49
My birthday today... I was hoping they'd pull this launch forward but I'd definitely take a launch tomorrow (7th) as a nice birthday present...

Fly you beauty! I'm go for launch!
#99 by Avron on 07 Feb, 2008 03:58
Fair winds ATLANTIS. Got a feeling tomorrow will be down to the Wire with the STA calling in the condition real-time.. just link in the summertime.

Godspeed to the crew of ATLANTIS .
#100 by nathan.moeller on 07 Feb, 2008 05:01
Hoping for a safe liftoff tomorrow afternoon. Good luck and Godspeed Atlantis and crew! Go STS-122!
#101 by STS-500Cmdr on 07 Feb, 2008 05:26
To borrow the words of Ken Cockrell on STS-98--which launched 7 years ago to the day, Let's get this vehicle off the MLP!!!
#102 by sam2007 on 07 Feb, 2008 05:57
The best from the Old and the New World go together to orbit! Go Atlantis! Go Columbus!
#103 by SpaceUSMC on 07 Feb, 2008 06:20
There is nothing more beautifull than a flying penguin. GO ATLANTIS!!!!!!!
#104 by trlstyle on 07 Feb, 2008 11:00
Im leaving now, hope she goes up today! Have fun guys and either enjoy the flight, or ill see ya on the causeway! :cool:
#105 by wannamoonbase on 07 Feb, 2008 11:59
How many years we have waited to see Columbus on orbit?

Really looking forward to the launch, hope it goes text book today.

Go Atlantis!
Go Columbus!
#106 by Mark Nguyen on 07 Feb, 2008 18:20
Launch weather is observed GO with less than 27 mintues including holds. Fly straight and true, Atlantis! Best wishes!

Mark
#107 by PaulyFirmbiz on 07 Feb, 2008 18:23
Gooooooooooooo ATLANTIS!!!!!!!!!!!! Show um how its done Com. FRICK!!!!
#108 by Seldon on 07 Feb, 2008 18:24
Atlantis is ready to fly .... Goooooooo Hans (and Columbus ...)
#109 by triddirt on 07 Feb, 2008 18:31
Got my fingers and toes crossed.. Nice job NASA... Let's light this candle
#110 by Lee Jay on 07 Feb, 2008 18:36
My best wishes to the team for a safe ride uphill, a safe and successful mission, and a safe return to Earth. A special congratulations and best wishes to our European friends, who have been waiting a long time for this. Go Atlantis!
#111 by MATTBLAK on 07 Feb, 2008 18:49
GO ATLANTIS!!May the Angels ride with you from Liftoff all the way to wheels stop!!
#112 by nichojo on 07 Feb, 2008 18:55
Wow. Beautiful ET pictures showing off the OMS. Wow.
#113 by MATTBLAK on 07 Feb, 2008 18:59
Beautiful launch! A lot of stuff flying around just before and after ET seperation, though...
#114 by Bret on 07 Feb, 2008 19:04
As clean a countdown and launch as you could ever ask for.

Go Atlantis!
#115 by yorky10 on 07 Feb, 2008 19:06
Great launch. Some dodgey tracking from the ground cams though :-) Ah well. GO ATLANTIS!!!!!
#116 by Lawntonlookirs on 07 Feb, 2008 19:17
Hats off to NASA for correcting all of the problems that Atlantis has had since December. Now for adding Columbus to the ISS.
#117 by stockman on 07 Feb, 2008 19:23
A great launch, and a great job .. congratulations to all the engineers and technicians that worked so hard the past two months.

and.... GOOD Riddance to this particular ECO feedthrough connector! glad to be rid of you..
#118 by kimmern123 on 07 Feb, 2008 19:30
Beautiful launch, wonderful commentary by both Diller and Navias! Terrific job by all the people involved in getting Atlantis ready to go fly today after all the issues the last few months. Let's hope the mission now proceeds flawlessly!

Go Atlantis!!
#119 by Flex Flint on 07 Feb, 2008 19:54
Quote
Lee Jay - 7/2/2008 8:36 PM

My best wishes to the team for a safe ride uphill, a safe and successful mission, and a safe return to Earth. A special congratulations and best wishes to our European friends, who have been waiting a long time for this. Go Atlantis!

Well said. I don't post much here, but I lurk a lot, and I'm often present on launches, flights, and landings. Thanks much to Mr. Bergin, admins, and helpful commenters from this site.

All the best to the people at NASA, ESA, and all others, all over the world, who help in this project.
#120 by spaceshuttle on 07 Feb, 2008 20:50
All thanks to the engineers who devoted their time to fixing ET-125 (?), and all others at NASA and here at NSF. Great launch on today!
#121 by el_nino on 07 Feb, 2008 21:30
Quote
spaceshuttle - 7/2/2008 4:50 PM

All thanks to the engineers who devoted their time to fixing ET-125 (?), and all others at NASA and here at NSF. Great launch on today!

I'll second that. I've been watching these things for a long time now, and it doesn't get any better or smoother than it did today.
#122 by ChrisC on 07 Feb, 2008 21:30
Well, I was hoping for a scrub of Thursday's launch, because I could make it to KSC for Fri, Sat and Sun attempts, just not Thursday. I had killer access, would have been standing next to the big countdown clock

It would have been my first launch in 27 years of following the program. Oh well, maybe next winter! (I'm not taking a chance on Florida weather anytime except in winter)
#123 by chas711usa on 07 Feb, 2008 22:06
Atlantis has risen to the heavens. Gratz to all who put in the hard work to make this possible.

and a question.. watching NASA TV I sometimes see the telemetry, but the picture's not clear enough to read the numbers. Is there a feed for this? It'd be really interesting to follow during manuvers.

Thanks,

Chas
#124 by CTdave on 08 Feb, 2008 23:11
WOW! What a launch! We arrived in FL Wed night & went out to KSC Thursday at 10 a.m.
Our passes had us check in with "guest ops" where they were shouting to the crowds "Astronaut families only". We breezed right in & were greeted & given packets with all sorts of pictures, stickers, information and a DVD. Off to the bus we went & arrived at the Banana Creek/Saturn 5 viewing center.
It was a nerve racking countdown with a weather "No-Go" as a thunderstorm poped up on the outskirts of the 20 mile limit. That dissipated & I think it was sometime into the T-9 min hold when the announcement came of "green light for launch".
What a beautiful launch! I have video of everything including my 5 year old son looking up to the sky while jumping up & down & clapping. What a great day!
#125 by ChrisC on 09 Feb, 2008 01:09
Congrats CTdave, I know you've been trying for a while. Was it you who had some photographer a****le jump in front of you at the last minute during a previous viewing attempt from Titusville?
#126 by on 09 Feb, 2008 17:15
Hey dave, did you meet the bus at the Merritt Island shopping center? My nephew and I were give the same package in a white folder. I couldn't believe we were going to the Banana River sight with the congressional pass. Thought they were for causeway viewing, but I wasn't dispute it. I'll accept that prime area over any other viewing.

I saw Robert Crippen standing 6 yard off to my right with what appears his daughters and a older guy who I think might be and astronouat..unsure. Al Worden walk right in front ( I was on the second row blecher left side...saw his name tag)

There was an astronaut carrying a shoulder bage with three mission patches on it having his back to me when I must of "temporary shut my eyes for moment" right in front. His hair was becoming grayish. I heard the lady in front of me saying "that's Chritean"...so I dunno. I think I may have seen a few others when the people were heanding back to the bus.

There isn't a word describin being there.
#127 by jcopella on 15 Feb, 2008 12:51
Not sure if this has been posted yet... Mods please delete if it's a repost, or move if it's the wrong forum:

http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z138/LAFFCLT/080207F22atshuttlelaunch.jpg
#128 by David AF on 15 Feb, 2008 13:01
Good photo. Can't say anymore on a public forum, but wasn't me.
#129 by on 15 Feb, 2008 13:42
wow! second best way of viewing a launch from air to ground. where was this found?
#130 by jcopella on 15 Feb, 2008 17:42
Quote
lunarrv15 - 15/2/2008 9:42 AM

wow! second best way of viewing a launch from air to ground. where was this found?

It was posted to another public forum, not specifically NASA-related, and I also received a copy from a source.
#131 by Ford Mustang on 20 Feb, 2008 02:06
Hopefully she'll be on the ground in less than 12 hours!!!

GODSPEED ATLANTIS!
#132 by rdale on 20 Feb, 2008 02:24
Quote
jcopella - 15/2/2008 8:51 AM

Not sure if this has been posted yet... Mods please delete if it's a repost, or move if it's the wrong forum:

According to the picture's metadata, it was taken June 8 2007 so likely not from this mission
#133 by Lawntonlookirs on 20 Feb, 2008 13:14
Just a comment on the great job Atlantis and its crew did on the flight and adding to the ISS. What a great Job and nice landing. Were glad you all made it home safely.
#134 by Flex Flint on 20 Feb, 2008 13:25
Congratulations to STS-122's crew, the people on ISS, and all others concerned for a job well done!

Thanks much to the owners of this forum and to the people posting here for letting us less knowledgeable folks lurk here! Coverage was great, both from NASA and from this forum!

Thumbs up for the next mission!

Regards,
Flint
#135 by siegfriedcqb on 20 Feb, 2008 13:56
What a smooth landing, a picture perfect ending to a very successful and enjoyable mission. The pictures from this mission have been simply amazing. Well done to STS-122 astronauts and to Space Shuttle Atlantis.
#136 by refsmmat on 20 Feb, 2008 13:59
Power went out at home 8 minutes before touchdown and came back on just as I was leaving for work, so after a glimpse of the orbiter at 60,000 ft this is my first chance to catch up on it...
#137 by Andrewwski on 20 Feb, 2008 14:02
This has to be by far the most sucessful, trouble-free mission post RTF. Congrats Atlantis, crew, and all those involved!
#138 by Lee Jay on 20 Feb, 2008 16:10
That was a heck of a good flight. The ground teams and the crew both deserve a heaping helping of credit and congratulations for a safe and very successful mission.
#139 by ShuttleDiscovery on 20 Feb, 2008 16:41
That was one great mission! Contratulations to all the crew!

The past 2 weeks went so fast though - it only seems like yesterday when it launched!
#140 by Mark Nguyen on 20 Feb, 2008 16:49
I gotta agree. Coverage of this mission has been spot-on for the whole duration - I have spent less time worrying about the individual deatils of the flight as ever, and that just made the time fly by at 18,000 mph. Good job everyone, and congrats to NASA for an excellent accomplishment!

Mark