KSC-81PC-0416

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Thousands of Space Center guests line the NASA Causeway awaiting the first launch of the Space Shuttle. The Vehicle Assembly Building where the orbiter is mated to the solid rocket boosters and the external tank, is visible in the distance. The STS-1 mission, known as a shuttle systems test flight, will seek to demonstrate safe launch into orbit and safe return of the orbiter and crew and verify the combined performance of the entire shuttle vehicle -- orbiter, solid rocket boosters and external tank.