[singlepic=160,220,,,right]The Space Shuttle Atlantis is all set, and ready for a launch on Sunday 28th August.
The main goal of this mission is to add a new Solar Array to the International Space Station (ISS).
When fitted, the new solar array will double the amount of electricity currently being generated on the ISS, allowing for three new science laboratories and two new living chambers.
Atlantis is only the 3rd shuttle to have taken off since the loss of Columbia and her crew in 2003, and although Discovery had a very successful mission in July, Atlantis will still have to go through the same vigorous safety checks.
The shuttle is the main backbone to the success of the ISS, and with only half of it built, it is estimated that another 16 missions will be needed before 2010 when the shuttle fleet is due to be retired.
Related Links:
Nasa Shuttle website
Atlantis crew prepare for late August launch
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