The shuttle Atlantis is nearing the point where it first begins to feel the effects of the Earth’s atmosphere. After 3 failed attempts, they have finally decided to land it in California. As of the recent updates, they have dicharged two fuel cylinders and everything is ready. It is landing at 1.19 AM India time. I am just looking at it on the news, it's everywhere. We even have an Indian, Sunita Williams onboard, who apparently has the record for being the Indian staying the longest while on space. Let's pray for a safe landing of all the astronauts. It's supposed to land at Runway 22 and the weather in California is completely clear, as of reports. It's getting exciting as the time approaches. Abhishek
Didn't one of the astronauts have to make some running repairs on the outside of the shuttle a few days ago? Gulp.
Update - Atlantis is travelling at a speed of 16,500kmph and to land this has to reduce, which is supposedly the biggest challenge! 15 minutes more. It is landing at Edwards Airforce Base
Yeah it's just sitting there radiating heat. Those pilots are amazing. Landing that multi billion dollar (brick with wings) with no power, just gliding. And they do that seconds after reentering the earth's atmosphere and feeling like they're pulling 6 Gs even though to us it's just regular earth gravity.
Yes! Imagine the shock their body must be in. They inside are more troubled than we can even imagine. As they're saying, they will be kept under observation for a while. No one will be allowed to meet them or talk to them. Also the whole shuttle will be checked before they are out. I am amazed.
Finally atlantis has landed. We here in San diego heard a loud boom when shuttle flew overhead on its way. Infact I felt my floor shaking. Congrats to all the astronauts.