The primary payload on this mission, the Magellan/Venus radar mapper spacecraft, was successfully deployed beginning its 15 month journey to Venus. Secondary experiments included the Mesoscale Lightning Experiment and the Microgravity Research with the Fluids Experiment Apparatus study.!
Left to right: Mission Specialist Norman Thagard, DOB: 7/3/43, Background: U.S. Marine Corps pilot. Mission specialist on STS-7, 51-B and STS-42. Education: M.S. in engineering science; doctorate of medicine.
Mission Specialist Mary Cleave, DOB: 2/5/47, Background: Served as CAPCOM on five Shuttle flights. Mission specialist on 61-B. Education: B.S. in biological sciences; M.S. in microbial ecology; Ph.D. in civil and environmental engineering.
Mission Specialist Mark Lee, DOB: 8/14/52, Background: Lt. Col., USAF. Mission specialist on STS-47. Education: B.S. in civil engineering; M.S. in mechanical engineering.
Pilot Ronald Grabe, DOB: 6/13/45, Background: Col., USAF. Piloted 51-J. Commanded STS-42. Education: B.S. in engineering science.
Commander David Walker, DOB: 5/20/44, Background: Capt., USN. Pilot of 51-A. Commander of STS-53. Education: B.S. degree.!
4 May 1989 2:46 p.m. EDT
Launch was originally scheduled for 28 April but was terminated because of problems with engine fuel lines.!
