NASA STS-135 Space Shuttle Atlantis To ISS Mission Patch

STS-135 was more than just a mission—it was the grand finale of NASA’s Space Shuttle era. Space Shuttle Atlantis blasted off on July 8, 2011, carrying the dreams and innovations of 30 years into orbit one last time. The four-person crew (Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley, Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim) delivered the Raffaello logistics module and a Lightweight Multi-Purpose Carrier to the International Space Station, stocking it with supplies and demonstrating how humans can keep living and working in space after the shuttle program ended.

What makes this mission legendary? Atlantis’ journey wrapped up a program that launched telescopes, built the ISS, and made space part of our everyday world. STS-135 flew with the smallest crew since early shuttle days, showing how astronaut teamwork and boldness can still shine when history is on the line. The flight included science experiments like the Robotic Refueling Mission, pushing technology for the future of satellite servicing and the next generation of explorers. All of this, while Atlantis completed its 33rd trip to space, covering over 125 million miles through its lifetime!

Space enthusiasts love STS-135 for these reasons:
- It was the final chapter of the Shuttle Program—after this, no more space shuttles ever flew.
- The mission delivered critical gear so the ISS could stay active for years.
- The tiny, handpicked crew represented the very best of NASA’s astronaut corps.
- Atlantis’ last landing at Kennedy Space Center was an emotional moment, watched by millions around the world.

If you’re hungry for more, check out these incredible videos:
- Launch and cockpit footage of the final shuttle liftoff: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIYUe8agiRM
- Complete mission highlights by NASA: https://plus.nasa.gov/video/sts-135-mission-highlights/
- Commander Ferguson’s iconic closing words as Atlantis touched down: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pc18Sjz2-Rg
- Final launch of the Space Shuttle Program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3deA3BXAnHs