Chairman Hall: "For more than thirty years, the talented men and women of NASA's space shuttle team have done an extraordinary job. They deserve tremendous credit for their accomplishments and their continuing commitment to the success of the program, which has pushed the boundaries of science, space exploration, and engineering. The shuttle program provides an incredible capability that will be missed after it is retired.

"I am very thankful that our beloved friend and colleague Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords was well enough that she could travel to watch her husband, Mark Kelly, command Endeavour's final journey to the International Space Station.

Gabby is the Ranking Member of our Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee, and is dedicated to ensuring that our nation remains a leader in human space exploration. I wish Commander Mark Kelly and his crew a successful flight and a safe return."

During the 14-day mission, Endeavour will deliver the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS), which is a state-of-the-art particle physics detector. Endeavour will also deliver spare parts to the International Space Station, including two S-band communications antennas, a high-pressure gas tank and additional spare parts.

This will be the 36th shuttle mission to the International Space Station. After this mission, just one more flight to the Station is planned, before the shuttles are retired later this year.

45th Space Wing supports successful shuttle launch
The U.S. Air Force's 45th Space Wing provided flawless Eastern Range support for NASA's successful launch of the final flight of Space Shuttle Endeavor. The launch occurred at 8:56 a.m. (EDT) from Space Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center.

A combined team of military, government civilians and contractors from across the 45th Space Wing provided vital support to the STS-134 mission, including weather forecasts, launch and range operations, safety and public affairs.

The wing also provided its vast network of radar, telemetry, optical and communications instrumentation to facilitate a safe launch on the Eastern Range.

STS-134 marks the 36th flight of a shuttle to the International Space Station.

During the 14-day mission, which will include four scheduled space walks, Endeavour will deliver the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) and spare parts including two S-band communications antennas, a high-pressure gas tank and additional spare parts for Dextre.

"As always, the 45th Space Wing is pleased to have supported NASA on another successful and safe launch," said Brig. Gen. Ed Wilson, commander, 45th Space Wing.

"Speaking on behalf of the entire Eastern Range team, congratulations and best wishes to the crew aboard Endeavor as they support our nation's human-space program. It's been our honor to be part of Endeavor's final mission to space."

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