STS-51G: An International Crew and Three Satellites

This recording captures the launch coverage of STS-51G, focusing on the terminal countdown starting at T minus 2 hours, 31 minutes, 35 seconds, leading to liftoff at T0. Notable ascent milestones include solid rocket booster separation, main engine cutoff, and external tank separation, all occurring as planned. The mission features the first flight of Saudi Arabian astronaut Sultan Al Saud and the 100th American in space, Steve Nagel, who celebrated this milestone during the flight.

On-orbit mission commentary during the deployment of the Arabsat satellite, approximately 11 minutes before deployment, the crew confirms the satellite is on internal power and begins the spin-up sequence. Notably, John Fabian and Sultan Salman Al Saud discuss the successful deployment, with the satellite departing nominally and tracking well. The recording also highlights Steve Nagel's celebration as the 100th American in space, marked by a cake-cutting ceremony aboard the shuttle.

This press conference following STS-51G features notable discussions with crew members, including French astronaut Patrick Baudry and Saudi Prince Sultan Salman Al Saud. Key topics include Baudry's humorous remarks about bringing wine aboard and the successful deployment of three satellites, including Arabsat. The conference also highlights the technical challenges faced, such as failed communications with Paris, and the crew's reflections on their mission's accomplishments and international significance.

This highlights reel captures key moments from the STS-51G mission, including the liftoff of Discovery at T minus 16 seconds and the deployment of three satellites, confirmed as nominal. Notably, Steve Nagel became the 100th American in space, celebrated with a cake presentation aboard the shuttle. The recording also features a significant moment when the crew acknowledges the start of the 100th orbit, officially named Orbit Nagel.

This recording captures the launch coverage of STS-51G, focusing on the terminal countdown starting at T minus 20 minutes, leading to liftoff at 7:33 AM. Distinctive moments include a momentary power glitch at 3:32 AM, the arrival of the international crew at the launch pad, and the deployment of three communication satellites, including the first Arab satellite, Arabsat. Notably, this mission features the first flight of Saudi astronaut Sultan Al Saud and French payload specialist Patrick Baudry aboard an American shuttle.

This recording captures the launch coverage of STS-51G, focusing on the terminal countdown starting at T minus 15 minutes, leading to liftoff at 7:33 AM. Distinctive moments include the retraction of the orbiter access arm at T minus 7 minutes 30 seconds, solid rocket booster ignition at T minus 3 seconds, and confirmation of solid rocket booster separation shortly after liftoff. Notably, the launch experienced a brief power issue prior to liftoff, which was resolved without impacting the countdown.

Landing coverage of STS-51G, with touchdown occurring at 01:38:50 mission elapsed time. The orbiter Discovery touched down on Runway 23 at Edwards Air Force Base, with a notable mention of a hydraulic isolation valve issue that did not open at nose gear touchdown. The crew, including Commander Dan Brandenstein and Pilot John Creighton, reported a successful landing with a rollout margin of 4,500 feet and 15% braking. Post-landing, the recovery convoy was deployed to assist the crew and ensure safety.

This highlights reel captures key moments from the STS-51G mission, including the crew's departure from the operations and checkout building led by Commander Dan Brandenstein at T minus 2 hours 31 minutes. The recording features the liftoff of Discovery at T minus 16 seconds, the deployment of three satellites, and the celebration of Steve Nagel as the 100th American in space, marked by a cake presentation. Additionally, it highlights the start of the 100th orbit, officially named Orbit Nagel.

This recording captures the launch coverage of STS-51G, focusing on the terminal countdown starting at T minus 2 hours, 31 minutes, 35 seconds, leading to liftoff at T0. Distinctive moments include the solid rocket booster ignition at T minus 3 seconds, confirmation of solid rocket booster separation shortly after liftoff, and the main engine cutoff. Notably, this mission features the first flight of Saudi astronaut Sultan Al Saud and the 100th American in space, Steve Nagel, who celebrated this milestone during the flight.

On-orbit mission commentary during the approach to the Spartan satellite, with the crew confirming its position approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes into the mission. Notably, John Fabian and the team discuss the successful completion of a laser test, contrasting it with a previous attempt that faced issues. The crew also engages in light-hearted banter about the definition of a hot dog, showcasing camaraderie during their mission activities.

On-orbit mission commentary during flight day 4, 3 hours and 31 minutes into the mission, highlights the crew's successful deployment of the Spartan satellite. John Fabian discusses the deployment of three telecommunications satellites, including Arabsat and Telstar, while Steve Nagel describes the automated directional solidification furnace experiment. The crew also engages in light-hearted banter about the definition of a hot dog, showcasing their camaraderie during the mission.