Near the Shuttle Landing Facility fire rescue workers watch the launch of space shuttle Atlantis.

Near the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, fire/rescue workers watch the successful launch of space shuttle Atlantis. The rescue workers stand by in case of an emergency landing of the shuttle. Liftoff was on time at 2:45 p.m. EST. 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/Chuck Tintera