Atlantis Launches on Final Mission of Shuttle Program

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla., July 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Space Shuttle Atlantis successfully lifted off Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center today, marking the final Space Shuttle launch of the program.

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"The STS-135 mission will cap a remarkable program full of unparalleled accomplishments.  The employees of United Space Alliance are intensely proud of the important role they have played in processing, launching, and operating this incredible national asset," said Virginia Barnes, Chief Executive Officer of United Space Alliance (USA).

USA, which began operating as NASA's prime Space Shuttle contractor in 1996, has had primary responsibility for processing and executing 56 Shuttle missions, and has been responsible for planning, training and operations support for 81 human space flight missions, including 28 International Space Station increments.  The company will continue to support ISS operations, and is lending its expertise to the design and development of the next generation of human space flight vehicles.

Today's launch begins Atlantis' 33rd spaceflight and marks the 37th Shuttle mission to the ISS.  

"As demonstrated by Atlantis' smooth processing flow and another great launch, these vehicles and the team of people behind them are performing better than ever," said Dan Brandenstein, USA's Chief Operating Officer.  "As the Shuttle program has wound down, this team has been totally committed to finishing strong and finishing safe."

The STS-135 mission will transport a payload of supplies and spare parts aimed at leaving the ISS in the best possible configuration for the post-Shuttle period.

"The USA team is looking forward to a successful mission, a safe landing and a new future in human spaceflight endeavors," Barnes said.

About United Space Alliance:

United Space Alliance is a world leader in space operations with extensive experience in all aspects of the field. Headquartered in Houston, USA has more than 5,000 employees working in Texas, Florida and Alabama. Currently, USA is applying its broad range of capabilities to NASA's Space Shuttle and International Space Station programs as well as to space operations customers in the commercial and international space industry sectors.

SOURCE United Space Alliance

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