Even the launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour from launch Pad 39A creates a flaming brilliance.

Even in the middle of the day, the launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour from launch Pad 39A creates a flaming brilliance. Clouds of smoke and steam spew over the surrounding landscape, almost touching the cactus growing in the foreground. Liftoff of the ninth flight to the International Space Station occurred at 2:40:42 p.m. EDT. The 11-day mission will deliver and integrate the Spacelab Logistics Pallet/Launch Deployment Assembly, which includes the Space Station Remote Manipulator System and the UHF Antenna. The mission includes two planned spacewalks for installation of the SSRMS on the Station. Also onboard is the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello, carrying resupply stowage racks and resupply/return stowage platforms