For those who may not know. NASA's space shuttle program has ended with Atlantis' final flight launched July 8th. A program spanning 30 years. I remember seeing the shuttle Challenger blowing up as a youth and always marveled at the programs achievements and contributions to our understanding of not only our own planet but the universe. While we mourn the loss of those taken in tragedy I have to say it must have been a ride worth taken.
135 missions with only two unfortunate accidents to me is a success. God speed to all that have ridden the most fantastic ride in human history to help further our species as a whole, and our understanding of the universe.
One of my favorite launch vids. Ironic it's also of Atlantis. Watch in HD and with the volume up.