Space Shuttle Atlantis lifts off for the last time

Space Shuttle Atlantis Leaving Earth for the last time. This was the

last launch of the last mission of US Space Shuttle Fleet. A historic,

but bittersweet event.

Image shot 8 July 2011 (Best viewed large).

Comments welcome.

Hi Tom,

Nice shot using the zoom telephoto. Technically right on !

I have been in a similar place when shooting space launches, and unless the ground air is steady, the clarity would hinder the shot. Your image is very good across the water.

Fine capture.

By the way, I designed and built (along with my team) one of the  telescopes used to track various launches. I used to have a ring side seat to many of them !

Best Regards,  Mike

Fine capture...

For the nice comments.

Luckily the launch was flawless. Unfortunately, it was a very hazy day, so the images weren't as clear as I'd have hoped.

I know the lenses NASA has are worlds above anything I will ever use...although if their budgets keep getting cut, I suppose they could fall into my price range soon.   :)