STS-38: Atlantis Returns from Space

Name: STS-38: Atlantis Returns from Space
Start: 1990-11-20
Location: Unspecified

Celebrating the Return of STS-38: Atlantis 7

STS-38 and the Atlantis 7 Mission

The STS-38 mission marks a significant chapter in space exploration history. Launched on November 20, 1990, aboard the orbiter Atlantis, this mission was crucial as it represented the 68th manned space mission of the United States. The primary objective was to deploy a classified payload for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), showcasing the military capabilities and technology advancements of the period.

The Crew of Atlantis 7

Commanded by Daniel Brandenstein, the STS-38 crew included notable astronauts: John Lounge, Jerry Ross, Peter Jennings, and others. Each crew member brought unique skills and experience to this groundbreaking mission. Their teamwork exemplified the dedication and professionalism inherent in NASA's astronaut program.

Historic Landing: The Conclusion of STS-38

The Landing of Atlantis

After successfully completing its mission, Atlantis made a safe landing on December 2, 1990, at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This moment was celebrated not just for the successful mission execution but also for the impressive maneuvering and computational systems of the Shuttle, which displayed technological refinements developed over previous missions.

The Legacy of STS-38

The successful return of STS-38 contributed to the understanding of how space missions were conducted, highlighting the blend of military and scientific collaboration during a pivotal era in space exploration. This mission paved the way for future operations and reaffirmed the robust capabilities of the Space Shuttle program.

Fun Fact

Interesting Trivia about Atlantis 7

Did you know that Atlantis was the first Space Shuttle to make a return to flight after a three-year hiatus? Its mission demonstrated NASA's commitment to resuming space exploration with reliable technology and international cooperation.