Space: "The classroom is now open ..."

With those words the NASA launch narrator reported that external tank separation had occurred and Endeavor was well on its way to achieving orbit.

Shuttle launches are never routine though in the public consciousness they have become so. However, yesterday's launch was special because it was a promise kept from 21 years ago.

Congratulations to Barbara Morgan, educator-astrounaut!

Now let's all work real hard to bring her and the rest of the crew home safe in two weeks.