Shuttle Endeavour final launch finally launches!

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click to enlarge Shuttle Endeavour on the launch pad before sunup - www.starznbarz.com
www.starznbarz.com
Shuttle Endeavour on the launch pad before sunup

Space shuttle Endeavour STS-134 launched from Kennedy Space Center yesterday morning for the last time after a two-week mechanical delay. The shuttle program will end after the launch of shuttle Atlantis scheduled for June 28, 2011.

It was an overcast morning at KSC, but the cloud bank was judged not a threat to launch - although it made for a less than spectacular view for spectators as the shuttle was quickly swallowed up in the clouds within seconds of leaving the pad. More photos, as well as a short video of the launch, will be available on starznbarz.com by Wednesday.

click to enlarge The helmets and gloves for Endeavour crew are loaded on the transport vehicle - www.starznbarz.com
www.starznbarz.com
The helmets and gloves for Endeavour crew are loaded on the transport vehicle

click to enlarge Crew of shuttle Endeavour enter transport vehicle for the ride out to the launch pad - www.starznbarz.com
www.starznbarz.com
Crew of shuttle Endeavour enter transport vehicle for the ride out to the launch pad

Check out more photos after the jump.

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