The launch team stands to view the liftoff of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121 the first ever Independence Day launch of a space shuttle.

In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center, the launch team stands to view the liftoff of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121 -- the first ever Independence Day launch of a space shuttle. 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