Atlantis Blasts Off

The Space Shuttle Atlantis lifted off today - loaded with spare parts for the ISS. STS-129 should be an eleven day mission to restock the station with major spare parts. These assemblies should keep things running smoothly after the shuttle fleet is retired next year. After today's launch, there are just five planned missions remaining. The last shot below is a very lucky picture snapped by ace's parents who happen to be on a cruise ship off Florida.