Discovery launched

Twenty minutes ago, Space Shuttle Discovery was launched from Kennedy Space Center on mission STS-131.

I followed the launch on the internet at
www.spaceflightnow.com/shuttle/sts131/status.html

1021 GMT (6:21 a.m. EDT)

T+plus 15 seconds. Houston is now controlling as Discovery maneuvers to the proper course for intercepting the space station early Wednesday.

1021:25 GMT (6:21:25 a.m. EDT)

T-minus 10 seconds, go for ignition of the space shuttle main engines, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 and LIFTOFF! Liftoff of shuttle Discovery, launching new science and supplies to support our orbiting space laboratory!

1020:54 GMT (6:20:54 a.m. EDT)

T-minus 31 seconds. AUTO SEQUENCE START! The handoff has occurred from the Ground Launch Sequencer to the space shuttle. Discovery's computers now controlling.

In the next few seconds, the solid rocket booster hydraulic steering system will be started, the orbiter's body flap and speed brake moved to their launch positions, the firing chain armed. Main engine ignition begins at T-minus 6.6 seconds.

The site also live streamed by video. For those who are able to access it, NASA TV.

Here is a replay from NASAtelevision


A suitable song to go with the launch is Calling Occupants of Interplanetary Craft (The Carpenters)



Awesome!