Sts 133 Collection

View of the space shuttle Discovery crew cabin
February 26, 2011 - View of the space shuttle Discovery crew cabin

Close-up view of the three main engines of space shuttle Discovery
February 26, 2011 - Partial view of the three main engines of space shuttle Discovery. This image was photographed with a digital still camera, using a 1000mm lens

Space Shuttle Discovery lifts off from its launch pad at Kennedy Space Center, Florida
February 24, 2011 - Rising on twin columns of fire and creating rolling clouds of smoke and steam, space shuttle Discovery lifted off Launch Pad 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida

The Permanent Multipurpose Module in space shuttle Discoverys payload bay
March 1, 2011 - In the grasp of the International Space Stations Canadarm2, the Italian-built Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM)

The Permanent Multipurpose Module and a docked Russian Soyuz spacecraft
March 1, 2011 - The newly-attached Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) and a docked Russian Soyuz spacecraft. Earths horizon and the blackness of space provide the backdrop for the scene

The aft section of space shuttle Discovery backdropped by planet Earth
February 26, 2011 - The aft section of space shuttle Discovery backdropped by a blue and white part of Earth

Close-up view of the aft section of the International Space Station
March 7, 2011 - A close-up view of the aft section of the International Space Station

Space shuttle Discovery and the Canadian-built Dextre docked to the International
February 26, 2011 - Space shuttle Discovery and the Canadian-built Dextre, also known as the Special Purpose Dextrous Manipulator (SPDM), docked to the International Space Station

A close-up view of the International Space Station
March 7, 2011 - A close-up view of the International Space Station

The Permanent Multipurpose Module attached to the International Space Station
March 2, 2011 - The newly-installed Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) of the International Space Station

The Permanent Multipurpose Module in the grasp of Canadarm2
March 1, 2011 - In the grasp of the International Space Stations Canadarm2, the Italian-built Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM)

The docked space shuttle Discovery and Dextre
February 27, 2011 - The docked space shuttle Discovery (STS-133) and the Canadian-built Dextre, also known as the Special Purpose Dextrous Manipulator (SPDM)

View of space shuttle Discoverys three main engines
February 26, 2011 - View of the aft portion of the space shuttle Discovery, including the three main engines and part of the wings

Space Shuttle Discovery approaches the International Space Station
February 26, 2011 - Backdropped by a blue and white part of Earth, space shuttle Discovery approaches the International Space Station during STS-133 rendezvous and docking operations

The Cupola of the International Space Station and a docked Russian Progress spacecraft
March 2, 2011 - The Cupola of the International Space Station and a docked Russian Progress spacecraft, backdropped by Earths horizon and the blackness of space

View of a docked Russian Soyuz spacecraft and part of the International Space Station
March 1, 2011 - View of a docked Russian Soyuz spacecraft (right), a portion of the International Space Stations Quest airlock and solar array panels

The Leonardo Permanent Multipurpose Module in the grasp of Canadarm2
March 1, 2011 - In the grasp of the International Space Stations Canadarm2, the Italian-built Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM)

International Space Station backgropped by a blue and white Earth
March 7, 2011 - The International Space Station backgropped by a blue and white Earth

International Space Station, 2011

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STS-133 was a momentous mission that took place at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Inside the Operations and Checkout Building (O&C), preparations were underway for the historic launch. The excitement grew as an exhaust cloud billowed around Launch Pad 39A, where space shuttle Discovery awaited its journey into orbit. The "towback" vehicle lined up perfectly to guide Discovery towards its entry into Orbiter Processing Facility-1. Nearby, a crane and a skiff patiently waited for Liberty Star, one of NASA's solid rocket booster retrieval ships. Cameras stationed near Launch Pad 39A captured the awe-inspiring sight of space shuttle Discovery as it lifted off into the vast unknown. In a swirl of billowing steam, Discovery ignited for liftoff, marking another incredible chapter in human exploration. As the STS-133 crew arrived in T-38 jets, they were closely monitored by a vigilant NASA helicopter. Their arrival signaled the beginning of their extraordinary journey beyond Earth's atmosphere. Workers bravely guided the left spent booster used during space shuttle Discovery on a small raft across treacherous waters. Their dedication ensured that every part of this groundbreaking mission was executed flawlessly. On twin columns of fire, space shuttle Discovery soared through the sky with unmatched grace and power. Its nose gear descended in anticipation of touch down on Runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center - an exhilarating moment witnessed by all who were fortunate enough to be present. With precision and expertise, workers installed hoisting ropes around the left spent booster used during this remarkable mission. Their meticulous efforts showcased their commitment to ensuring every detail was accounted for throughout STS-133. As dawn approached over Kennedy Space Center, anticipation filled the air. The sun rose on yet another day filled with endless possibilities and dreams realized through humanity's unyielding pursuit of knowledge and exploration. STS-133 will forever be remembered as a testament to human ingenuity and the indomitable spirit of exploration.