It towered above the gazing crowd – all eyes were fixed on the 230-foot-tall rocket. The day was picture-perfect. The wind was barely perceptible, and the sky was the most transparent blue.
Everything had led up to this moment. Nervous engineers paced back and forth. The command center chattered with orders and readings from gauges. Checks and double-checks were done. Nothing would stop the launch of this technological titan.

Puffs of steam wafted from the 33 rocket motor engines. This steam gave the impression that the rocket was “chomping at the bit,” ready to go, and nothing would hold it back.
The countdown began 9… 8… 7… the staff is gathered in mission control, wringing their hands… 6… 5… 4… They lean forward with anticipation… 3… 2… years of toil and sleepless nights have led to this moment… 1…
LIFTOFF…

