NASA management watches and waits for the launch of space shuttle Atlantis on the STS-122 mission to the International Space Station.

Inside the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, NASA management watches and waits for the launch of space shuttle Atlantis on the STS-122 mission to the International Space Station. From right are NASA Administrator Mike Griffin, Associate Administrator for NASA Space Operations William H. Gerstenmaier, Shuttle Program Manager Wayne Hale. Standing on the left is Center Director Bill Parsons. The launch is the third attempt for Atlantis since December 2007 to carry the European Space Agency's Columbus laboratory to the International Space Station. During the 11-day mission, the crew's prime objective is to attach the laboratory to the Harmony module, adding to the station's size and capabilities. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett