Back Safe from Space

Here at Buckey HQ, we have a special affection for astronauts. We are so happy about the safe landing of the shuttle.

MSNBC reports: Discovery and its crew made a smooth landing on Wednesday to conclude a 15-day space station build-and-repair mission that was among the most challenging — and heroic — in shuttle history... During docked operations at the international space station, Discovery's seven shuttle astronauts teamed up with the station's three residents to save a mangled solar wing. It was one of the most difficult and dangerous repairs ever attempted in orbit, but the future of the space station was riding on it, and Scott Parazynski pulled it off in a single spacewalk.

It's particularly exciting since this mission marks a significant achievement for women in space. Pamela Melroy is the second female commander to land a shuttle, following in astronaut Eileen Collins' footsteps.

The courage and leadership shown by the men and women in our space program is inspiring. Thank you to our space heroes.