This week, we celebrate the 14th anniversary of the final launch of the space shuttle Discovery. On February 24, 2011, NASA’s most seasoned shuttle embarked on its last mission, STS-133, carrying supplies and a humanoid robot named Robonaut 2 to the International Space Station (ISS).

As the third of NASA’s orbiters to retire, Discovery left behind a remarkable legacy shaped by decades of exploration and achievement.

A Shuttle Like No Other

Discovery first took to the skies on August 30, 1984, on the STS-41-D mission. It was the third orbiter to join NASA’s shuttle fleet and quickly became a workhorse of the space program. Over its 27 years of service, Discovery completed 39 missions, more than any other shuttle, logging over 365 days in space.

The shuttle’s contributions to science and exploration were extraordinary. It deployed key satellites, such as the Hubble Space Telescope in 1990, which has transformed our understanding of the universe.

Discovery was also instrumental in pioneering international collaboration, carrying astronauts from around the globe and supporting construction efforts for the ISS. Its sturdy design and versatility made it the shuttle of choice for critical missions, including the return to space following the tragic losses of Challenger in 1986 and Columbia in 2003.

A Legacy of Exploration

The final flight of Discovery in 2011 marked the end of an era. STS-133 underscored the shuttle’s legacy as a vehicle for advancing humanity’s reach. By ferrying Robonaut 2, the first humanoid robot to space, Discovery hinted at the future of robotics in exploration. Its last journey was both a farewell and a reminder of its enduring impact on space science.

After retirement, Discovery found a new home at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia. There, it continues to inspire millions of visitors each year, offering a tangible connection to the bold spirit of human spaceflight.

The Wrap

As we reflect on Discovery’s incredible history, it’s clear the shuttle was more than just a spacecraft, it was a symbol of innovation and perseverance. Its missions not only advanced our scientific knowledge but also united nations and inspired generations to reach for the stars.

Fourteen years after its final flight, Discovery remains a testament to what humanity can achieve when we dare to dream big.

Go Deeper –> Final Mission of Space Shuttle Discovery – This Day in Tech History