NASA image originally released April 12, 1981
S81-30498 (12 April 1981) --- After six years of silence, the thunder of manned spaceflight is heard again, as the successful launch of the first space shuttle ushers in a new concept in utilization of space. The April 12, 1981 launch, at Pad 39A, just seconds past 7 a.m., carries astronaut John Young and Robert Crippen into an Earth-orbital mission scheduled to last for 54 hours, ending with unpowered landing at Edwards Air Force Base in California. STS-1, the first in a series of shuttle vehicles planned for the Space Transportation System, utilizes reusable launch and return components.
To read more about the history of the Space Shuttle go here: www.nasa.gov/externalflash/the_shuttle/
Credit: NASA
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center enables NASA’s mission through four scientific endeavors: Earth Science, Heliophysics, Solar System Exploration, and Astrophysics. Goddard plays a leading role in NASA’s accomplishments by contributing compelling scientific knowledge to advance the Agency’s mission.
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pscalfano, 3XT≠≠≠, @banastas, julember2000 | JuliánDBernal, and 244 other people added this photo to their favorites.
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Chip_n_thePNW 25 months ago | reply
-- Facts about the sound emitted from a launch --
(The sound pressure energy level at the launch pad is about 220 decibels (dB),
At at a mile away, 135 dB, your hearing would be damaged.
And at 800 feet away, the sound [alone] would kill you.
Human death occurs at around 200 dB due to intense vibration of internal organs.
NASA says at 400 feet from the launch pad, the heat will kill you.
Pierre Rombola [deleted] 19 months ago | reply
This is a masterpiece! Nway Photos.
R I O M A N S O 16 months ago | reply
Excelente
marvinsmith 6 weeks ago | reply
Happy Anniversary! What a day that must've been.
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