This week, NASA commemorated the 40th anniversary of the public unveiling of Space Shuttle Discovery, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to honoring significant historical milestones. Discovery, which had been in the process of construction by Rockwell International since 1979, made its inaugural flight in 1984.
Space Shuttle Discovery's 40th Anniversary
Discovery's journey in the realm of space exploration began in 1979 when Rockwell International commenced its construction. On October 16, 1983, this iconic NASA Space Shuttle entered the annals of history with its grand debut at the Palmdale manufacturing plant in California.
This momentous occasion marked the culmination of three years of meticulous craftsmanship. Discovery was officially welcomed into the NASA family, alongside its orbital counterparts, Columbia and Challenger, as well as the atmospheric test vehicle Enterprise.
The rollout ceremony, graced by NASA and other dignitaries, also saw the introduction of the astronauts assigned to Discovery's maiden mission, STS-41D, initially slated for launch in June 1984. Little did they know that this Shuttle would go on to achieve a remarkable 39 missions over its impressive 26-year career, surpassing all other orbiters in the program.
This Shuttle's legacy was also punctuated by remarkable achievements. It played a pivotal role in the Shuttle-Mir program, marking its place in international space cooperation. Discovery carried the first cosmonaut, Sergei Krikalev, on a U.S. spacecraft and made history by taking the legendary John Glenn, then 77 years old, back to orbit.
Ambitious plans once existed for Discovery to serve as the first Air Force Shuttle, with a scheduled launch from Vandenburg Air Force Base in 1986. Unfortunately, the tragic Challenger disaster shattered these aspirations.
Discovery's journey was not without its share of challenges. Its maiden flight faced the program's first launch abort, occurring just four seconds before liftoff, with two of the three main engines already ignited. This Shuttle also played a vital role in the return-to-flight efforts following both the Challenger and Columbia disasters, showcasing its resilience in the face of adversity.
The latter disaster demanded two return-to-flight missions from Discovery, as engineers grappled with the issue of foam shedding from the Space Shuttle's external tank. Discovery's rich history is a testament to human innovation, determination, and unwavering commitment to exploring the cosmos.
First Space Shuttle To Be Retired
Discovery, the first Space Shuttle to retire, concluded its service with the STS-133 mission in February 2011. After a successful landing, it was decommissioned and relocated to the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia in 2012. In its new home, Discovery replaced the Enterprise, symbolizing a transition in the Space Shuttle program.
Throughout its impressive 26-year career spanning 39 missions, Discovery's significance was evident. It participated in nearly every type of space shuttle mission, from deploying and retrieving satellites to servicing observatories like the Hubble Space Telescope.
The shuttle was a vital asset in resupplying the Russian Mir space station and played a pivotal role in assembling and maintaining the International Space Station.
Discovery's legacy also included leading the return-to-flight missions after the Challenger and Columbia disasters, showcasing its resilience.
The spacecraft's remarkable journey culminated with the STS-133 mission in 2011, after which it was displayed at the Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum's Stephen F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, where it continues to inspire and educate. Discovery remains a symbol of human exploration and achievement in the field of space exploration.
RELATED ARTICLE: NASA Releases Video to Mark 40th Anniversary of Space Shuttle Program
Check out more news and information on Space in Science Times.
