[prisoner6]

the shuttle is an engineering marvel

Of it WAS for it's time AND NASA has done a credible job of updating. BUT we have much better capabilities now, especially in heat dispersion materials, electronics and - as far as I'm concerned - overall design. I never did fancy the idea of a "flying brick".

That said I have to admit with the record NASA has with the STS, I wouldn't be afraid to jump on board.prisoner6

[Soul Citizen]

Looks as if based on the video she broke up early in the reentry process.

Resembled satellite decay reentry.

Wasn't normal reentry as viewed from Kennedy in previous missions.

J-track 3-D showing some satellites in low orbit in area.

It is a shame so many had become some used to shuttle launches it wasn't a big deal to watch any more, I think everyone will now appreciated the incredible amount of potential for disaster that exists for these complex activities.

[Valin]

I seem to recall that the x-15 had gotten to 80% of escape velocity and were awaiting a bigger engine when nasa closed down the program in favor of rockets.