The Shuttle Carrier Aircraft with orbiter Columbia is viewed as it returns to KSC from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

The Shuttle Carrier Aircraft with orbiter Columbia on top is viewed from underneath as it soars through the sky over the Space Coast of Florida as it returns to KSC from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The ferry flight began in California March 1. Unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Dyess AFB, Texas, until it could return to Florida. It landed temporarily at the CCAFS Skid Strip until Atlantis, which had already landed at the SLF, could be transferred. Columbia is returning from a 17-month-long modification and refurbishment process as part of a routine maintenance plan. The orbiter will next fly on mission STS-107, scheduled Oct. 25