The Cupola Is Installed!

Here are a couple shots of the Cupola.  It was just installed on STS-130 last week.  In my opinion, probably one of the most amazing aspects of the ISS.  The windows provide a nearly complete view of the bottom of the ISS for robotics outside and incredible views of the Earth below.  I've hoped that the Cupola would be launched since I learned about it 3 years ago... many people suspected it would get cut from the launch manifest and are very excited to see it installed.  It really gives the Station something special.  It is unlikely we will see such structures in space again in our lifetime... at least the way things are going.  Here are some pictures.

Sahara Desert Below

A Picture of Steve Robinson in the Cupola

A picture of Endeavor performing an S-Turn during reentry... likely the only picture taken of a manned spacecraft during reentry taken from space (taken from the Cupola)