In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center is congratulated for the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121.

In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach (center) is congratulated by NASA Administrator Mike Griffin (right) for the successful launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121. The launch was the first ever to take place on Independence Day. Behind Leinbach are David R. Mould, assistant administrator for Public Affairs NASA, and Lisa Malone, director of External Relations at Kennedy. Liftoff was on-time at 2:38 p.m. EDT. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew of seven will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. Landing is scheduled for July 16 or 17 at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett