Flying thirty-nine missions and spending three hundred sixty-five days in space, the space shuttle Discovery earned an impressive list of firsts over its twenty-seven years of service. Since Discovery flew every type of mission and served every purpose intended for the space shuttle, Discovery’s story is the story of the space shuttle itself.

Here, in the pages of this lavishly-illustrated volume from the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, readers will discover the story of the space shuttle program. Then explore Discovery inside and out. Review each mission flown on board the shuttle and see where Discovery is now. Jam-packed with information and photographs, the story of the space shuttle is the story of a vital part of America’s space program. The story of Discovery is perfect for readers who remember the shuttle flights, for students of space exploration, and for those who want to learn about the space shuttle program.

A glossary is included.

Highly recommended. ( )