Space Shuttle Atlantis Launches with Cutting-Edge 'Glass Cockpit' on STS-101 Mission

On May 19, 2000, a significant milestone in space exploration was marked. The space shuttle Atlantis embarked on its journey equipped with the groundbreaking "glass cockpit" for the very first time. The implementation of this innovative technology was part of a comprehensive enhancement program carried out before the STS-101 mission. NASA proudly hailed this upgraded version of Atlantis as "the most advanced space shuttle ever."

The new glass cockpit was an engineering marvel, featuring 11 flat-panel, full-color display screens. These state-of-the-art screens replaced the archaic four cathode-ray tube displays and 32 different gauges and indicators. The transformation not only bestowed the cockpit with a futuristic appearance but also significantly facilitated the astronauts in piloting the shuttle.

Technological Advantages

Aside from the visual and operational benefits, the advanced technology also brought about a reduction in power consumption and contributed to a weight decrease of 75 lbs. This reduction in weight assisted in lowering the shuttle’s fuel consumption, aligning with the pursuit of efficiency.

As part of an extensive weight reduction initiative, various measures were undertaken, leading to a substantial decrease in the weight of Atlantis by approximately 30,000 lbs.

For the STS-101 mission, a team comprising six NASA astronauts and one Russian cosmonaut piloted Atlantis to the International Space Station. The primary objectives included delivering supplies and undertaking construction and maintenance tasks at the station.