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Dec 11
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STS-35: Columbia 11 Returns from Space

History of STS-35

STS-35 Mission Overview

The STS-35 mission, part of NASA's Space Shuttle program, was launched on December 2, 1990, aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia. This was a landmark mission as it marked the 69th manned space flight in America’s history. The primary goal of the mission was to deploy the Astro-1 observatory to study astronomical phenomena.

Key Objectives of STS-35

The mission’s key objective was to carry out astronomical observations using the telescope aboard Astro-1. This mission contributed significantly to our knowledge of cosmic phenomena, including ultraviolet light from celestial bodies. The crew conducted various experiments that brought new insights into stellar and galactic phenomena.

The Return to Earth

Successful Landing of Columbia 11

After completing its objective and spending 6 days in space, STS-35 successfully returned to Earth on December 9, 1990. The landing occurred at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, marking an incredible achievement and a smooth end to a historic mission.

Impact and Legacy of the Mission

The STS-35 mission not only showcased NASA's commitment to advancing scientific knowledge but also laid ground for future missions involving astronomical instruments. The observations made during this flight significantly advanced the field of astrophysics and led to further developments in space telescope technology.

Fun Fact

Interesting Tidbit about STS-35

During the STS-35 mission, the astronauts aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia were able to observe comet Hale-Bopp from space, a rare opportunity that not many missions have enjoyed!

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on STS-35

For those interested in a deeper dive into the STS-35 mission, consider reading The Space Shuttle: Celebrating Thirty Years of NASA's First Space Plane and NASA's Space Shuttle: A History.