Space shuttle Atlantis is surrounded by clouds of smoke and steam as it lifts off Launch Pad 39A.

Space shuttle Atlantis is surrounded by clouds of smoke and steam as it lifts off Launch Pad 39A on mission STS-122. At far right is the water tower that provides water for the sound suppression system during liftoff. The shuttle lifted off on time at 2:45 p.m. EST. This is the third launch 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/NASA/Rick Wetherington, Tim Terry, Tim Powers