Space Shuttle Discovery’s Final Mission: STS-133

On February 24, 2011, Space Shuttle Discovery embarked on its final mission, STS-133, as part of NASA’s Space Shuttle program. The launch took place at 4:53 PM EST from Launch Pad 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

Mission Objectives

STS-133 was primarily tasked with delivering critical components to the International Space Station (ISS). The key objectives included:

• Delivery of the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM): This module was formerly the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) Leonardo, modified to become a permanent module on the station for storage and experiments.
• Express Logistics Carrier-4 (ELC-4): This platform provided additional storage for spare parts and hardware, ensuring continued maintenance and operation of the ISS systems.
• Robonaut 2 (R2): This was the first humanoid robot to be sent to space, aimed at demonstrating human-like robotic capabilities in assisting astronauts with routine tasks.

Crew Members

The STS-133 mission was crewed by a team of six astronauts:

• Commander Steven W. Lindsey
• Pilot Eric A. Boe
• Mission Specialist 1 Alvin Drew
• Mission Specialist 2 Stephen Bowen
• ^Mission Specialist 3 Michael Barratt**
• Mission Specialist 4 Nicole Stott

Notably, Stephen Bowen replaced astronaut Timothy Kopra after Kopra was injured in a bicycle accident prior to the mission’s launch.

Historical Significance

The mission marked Discovery’s 39th flight, solidifying its status as the most flown spacecraft in NASA’s history. Upon landing, Discovery concluded its operational history which began with its maiden voyage on August 30, 1984. This final mission underscored the contributions of the Space Shuttle program in furthering space exploration and international cooperation through the ISS.

Aftermath and Legacy

Discovery returned to Earth on March 9, 2011, landing at the Kennedy Space Center. Following its retirement, Discovery was transferred to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia, where it remains as an exhibit to educate and inspire future generations about human space exploration. Discovery’s legacy continues to influence NASA’s ongoing missions and future plans for space travel beyond low Earth orbit.