NASA approves the return of the space shuttle Atlantis

Space · Published 21 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Following a critical inspection of its thermal protection system, the STS-132 mission management team has cleared the shuttle to conclude its journey to Earth.

After a week-long stay at the International Space Station, the crew of Atlantis conducted a late-stage inspection to ensure the orbiter's thermal protection system remained intact and uncompromated. Following this review, NASA's Johnson Space Center Mission Management Team authorized the shuttle's return to Earth, scheduled for Wednesday, marking the end of the crew's 12-day mission.

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