Shuttle Docks at Space Station

By Colleen Barry,  Newser Staff
Posted Jun 11, 2007 5:31 AM CDT
Shuttle Docks at Space Station
In this image made from video provided by NASA, the Space Shuttle Atlantis is seen above the Earth during a back flip as it approaches the international space station in orbit. (AP Photo/NASA)   (Associated Press)

The Atlantis docked with the international space station today, bringing with it a segment to be added to the station and the newest member of its crew. The arrival was marred by concern about a piece of thermal blanket on the shuttle that peeled back during launch;  ground control is trying to decide if it needs to be repaired before the Atlantis returns.

Because engineers believe the damage wasn't caused by debris impact, they are confident it can be fixed if need be. Shuttle resident Sunita Williams will be returning home after six months on the station, replaced by astronaut Clayton Anderson. (More space stories.)

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