NASA’s Space Shuttle STS-74: An Overview
STS-74 Mission Background
The STS-74 mission was significant as it was the 15th flight of the Space Shuttle Atlantis and took place in November 1995. This mission was part of NASA's plan to support the construction and operation of the International Space Station (ISS). STS-74 was notable for its delivery of the second module to the Russian Mir space station, enhancing international collaboration in space research.
Objectives of STS-74
The primary objective of the STS-74 mission was to transport the Italian-built Mini-pressurized Logistics Module (MPLM) to the Mir space station. This module was designed to facilitate the transfer of equipment, supplies, and scientific experiments between the shuttle and the Mir. The successful execution of this mission bolstered the partnership between American and Russian astronauts and scientists.
The Historic Landing at Kennedy Space Center
Return Journey of Atlantis
After an 8-day mission, the Space Shuttle Atlantis made its return to Earth on November 20, 1995. The landing took place at the renowned Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The flawless landing was a testament to the precision of NASA's operations and the skill of the astronaut crew, achieving a successful conclusion to this groundbreaking mission.
The Astronaut Crew on STS-74
The crew of STS-74 was composed of seasoned astronauts: Commander Jim Halsell, Pilot Charles Precourt, Payload Commander Thomas Jones, and Mission Specialists Marie Cleave and Yuri Malyshev. Their combined expertise ensured a safe and effective mission, demonstrating the critical role of international partnerships in space exploration.
Fun Fact
The Remarkable Mars Rover Connection
Interestingly, the Mini-pressurized Logistics Module carried materials that would later contribute to technologies used in the Mars Rover missions, illustrating how space missions build on each other to advance knowledge and exploration.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on STS-74
For those interested in learning more about this significant mission, check out “Shuttle: A History” and “The Space Shuttle: 1981-2011”. These texts provide detailed accounts of the shuttle program and its numerous contributions to space exploration.
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