Space Shuttle Atlantis streaks into the sky on mission STS-106 after a perfect launch at 8:45:47 a.m. EDT.

Space Shuttle Atlantis streaks into the sky on mission STS-106 after a perfect on-time launch at 8:45:47 a.m. EDT. Blue mach diamonds are barely visible behind the main engine nozzles. On the 11-day mission to the International Space Station, the seven-member crew will perform support tasks on orbit, transfer supplies and prepare the living quarters in the newly arrived Zvezda Service Module. The first long-duration crew, dubbed “Expedition One,” is due to arrive at the Station in late fall. Landing of Atlantis is targeted for 4:45 a.m. EDT on Sept. 19