Members Laud Atlantis’ Successful Launch
(Washington, DC) Space Shuttle Atlantis lifted off this evening from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a mission to resume construction of the International Space Station.
Leaders of the House Committee on Science and Technology – the Committee with jurisdiction over civilian aviation and U.S. space activity – offered the following comments:
Committee Chairman Bart Gordon (D-TN):
"I know that I speak for all Americans in wishing the crew of STS-117 a successful mission and a safe journey. The NASA team – government employees and contractors alike – have worked hard to prepare Shuttle Atlantis for this launch, and they deserve our thanks for a job well done."
Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee Chairman Mark Udall (D-CO):
“The successful launch of space shuttle Atlantis is another step forward in completing the International Space Station and continuing America's strong space program. I join my fellow Coloradans in honoring the entire crew of STS-117, including one of our own, Mission Specialist Steve Swanson from Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Our state has made many contributions to the space program and we are excited to see Atlantis return to flight tonight. We wish the astronauts a safe and successful mission.”
Energy and Environment Subcommittee Chairman Nick Lampson (D-TX):
“I congratulate all the hard-working folks at NASA on another spectacular accomplishment today. As the Representative of the Johnson Space Center, the crown jewel of our nation’s space program, I am particularly proud of the efforts made by the folks in southeast Texas. The best and brightest minds at NASA and JSC are shining examples of why our nation remains at the forefront of space exploration.”
NASA notes that this mission marks the 118th space shuttle flight, the 28th flight for Atlantis and the 21st U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-117 is currently scheduled to land at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Fla., on Tuesday, June 19, 2007.
For more information about the STS-117 crew and mission to the space station, visit: https://www.nasa.gov/shuttle
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