Chief
10-23-2007, 08:06 AM
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7056539.stm
Space Shuttle Discovery launches on Tuesday on a mission that will mark the beginning of an intense period of space activity for Europe.
The orbiter is carrying the "Harmony" node to the space station.
The connecting unit will provide the passageway to the European Columbus laboratory, long-delayed but now set for launch itself in December.
Harmony has been built in Italy and its installation is being led by the Italian astronaut Paolo Nespoli.
The mission specialist is one of seven astronauts taking the Discovery flight to the International Space Station (ISS).
Shuttle flight STS-120, commanded by American Pam Melroy, will also allow a change of crew at the ISS.
Astronaut Daniel Tani will replace the long-stay resident Clayton Anderson, who has spent nearly five months living on the orbiting platform.
**SCHNIPP**
Good background piece on Europe's involvement in the ISS.
Space Shuttle Discovery launches on Tuesday on a mission that will mark the beginning of an intense period of space activity for Europe.
The orbiter is carrying the "Harmony" node to the space station.
The connecting unit will provide the passageway to the European Columbus laboratory, long-delayed but now set for launch itself in December.
Harmony has been built in Italy and its installation is being led by the Italian astronaut Paolo Nespoli.
The mission specialist is one of seven astronauts taking the Discovery flight to the International Space Station (ISS).
Shuttle flight STS-120, commanded by American Pam Melroy, will also allow a change of crew at the ISS.
Astronaut Daniel Tani will replace the long-stay resident Clayton Anderson, who has spent nearly five months living on the orbiting platform.
**SCHNIPP**
Good background piece on Europe's involvement in the ISS.