MIKE CURIE: T-16 seconds. Sound suppression water system has been activated,
protecting Discovery and the launch pad from acoustical energy.
We have a go for main engine start. T minus five, four, three,
two, one, booster ignition and liftoff of Discovery,
hoisting Harmony to the heavens and opening new gateways for
international science. Discovery has cleared the tower.
MISSION CONTROL: Houston now controlling.
TERRY VITZ: Roger roll, Discovery.
MISSION CONTROL: Discovery's roll maneuver is complete. It is now in a heads-down position,
on track for its flight to the International Space Station.
Discovery seven miles downrange at an altitude of two statute miles,
flying at 600 miles per hour. Discovery's engines are throttling down as the
orbiter passes through the area of maximum pressure on the vehicle.
Now 50 seconds into the flight. Discovery eight miles downrange from
the Kennedy Space Center at an altitude of six statute miles, flying at 900 miles per hour.