As some of you have heard, the space shuttle Discovery was successfully launched today, America’s first trip back to space since the Columbia explosion two and a half years ago. Anyone watch the liftoff? I didn’t see it live, but have seen some video clips since, and am simply awed by it. If you haven’t yet watched it, CNN has you covered: Shuttle Launch

Again I’ll say it…wow! Imagine all the things that have to go right during a launch, not to mention once they get to space. All the technology, ingenuity, parts, etc…

This launch has had more attention that just about any other, and because of not wanting a repeat of the Challenger and Columbia explosions, there were hundreds of cameras on and around the shuttle during the launch, views which we previously haven’t had. In fact, once in space, the shuttle will do a first-ever flip so that the occupants of the space station can photograph the underside and inspect it for damage. The shuttle is also equipped with a boom and attached laser which will scan the wings and other parts of the ship looking for damage. They really are taking no chances this time around. Unfortunately, they had to learn from experience. Space flight is unforgiving and doesn’t give second chances for mistakes.

So far, everything seems to have gone okay with the launch, though NASA is examining some video of debris that fell off during the launch. Read more about the safety procedures and plans for Discovery and it’s 12 day stay in space at Space.com.