STS-116 launch, Space Shuttle Discovery
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STS-116 launch, Space Shuttle Discovery
STS-116 launch. Space Shuttle Discovery launching from the Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA, at 20:47 local time on 9 December 2006, on mission STS-116 to the International Space Station (ISS). The shuttle is mounted on its external tank (orange), supplemented by two booster rockets (white). The blue cones of light (lower right) are shockwaves produced in the exhaust gases of the shuttles main engine, and are known as mach diamonds. Discovery carried seven astronauts to the ISS, to exchange ISS crew members and to continue the constructiion of the space station. STS-116, the 20th shuttle mission to the ISS, landed on 22 December 2006
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Media ID 6427069
© NASA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
2006 Booster Rocket Burning Centre Crewed Discovery Engineering Exhaust Gases Florida Ignition Kennedy Space Center Launch Pad Launching Manned Mission Night North American Shockwaves Shuttle Launch Smoke Space Craft Space Flight Space Ship Space Shuttle Taking Off Us A Sts 116
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the awe-inspiring moment of the STS-116 launch, as Space Shuttle Discovery embarks on its mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Taken at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA, on 9 December 2006, this image showcases the technological marvel that is manned space exploration. The shuttle stands tall, mounted on its vibrant orange external tank and flanked by two white booster rockets. As it ignites with tremendous power and precision at 20:47 local time, a column of fire shoots upwards into the night sky. The resulting plume of smoke billows behind it, symbolizing humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge and advancement. Intriguingly, amidst this spectacle are mesmerizing blue cones of light known as mach diamonds. These shockwaves form within the exhaust gases expelled from the shuttle's main engine. They serve as a visual testament to both the immense power generated during liftoff and our ability to harness such forces for scientific progress. Onboard Discovery are seven courageous astronauts who will carry out vital tasks aboard ISS while exchanging crew members. This mission marks an important milestone in space exploration history as STS-116 becomes the twentieth shuttle mission dedicated to supporting ISS operations. As we gaze upon this remarkable photograph, we are reminded of humanity's boundless curiosity and determination to push beyond earthly boundaries into uncharted territories. It serves as a timeless reminder that through engineering prowess and technological innovation, we can reach for the stars and expand our understanding of our place in the universe.
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