Daniel Akaka: “I rise in celebration of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's successful return to Earth of Space Shuttle…”

“I rise in celebration of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's successful return to Earth of Space Shuttle Discovery and to welcome the crew of flight STS-121 home. Over the last few decades, NASA has experienced tragic lessons in the dangers of space exploration. That is why it was heartwarming to see Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson, and Piers Sellers, safely return home after spending 13 days in orbit. After two weather-related delays, the Discovery launched on July 4, 2006, Independence Day. During the STS-121 mission, the crew made critical tests of shuttle safety improvements. In addition, the crew transported European Space Agency astronaut, Thomas Reiter, to the International Space Station where they delivered additional supplies and equipment. During their time on the International Space Station, the STS-121 crew worked in conjunction with the Expedition 13 crew on joint operations. The crew also performed maintenance on the International Space Station's mobile transporter and tested orbiter heat shield repair techniques during their three space walks. The flight marked the 115th space shuttle flight and was the second flight since the 2003 Columbia tragedy. This successful mission is a testament to NASA and our valiant astronauts that continue to strive for excellence.…”