This mission's primary objective was around-the-clock astronomy observation. Aiming the four telescopes proved difficult, but alignment was achieved with assistance from ground teams. Other payloads were an electro-optical calibration experiment and a Space Classroom Program. Mission length was shortened one day due to weather conditions.!
Front row, left to right: Pilot Guy Gardner, DOB: 1/6/48, Background: Col. USAF. Pilot on STS-27. Education: M.S. in astronautics.
Commander Vance Brand, DOB: 5/9/31, Background: Commanded STS-5 and 41-B. Education: M.S. in business administration.
Mission Specialist John (Mike) Lounge, DOB: 6/28/46, Background: Mission specialist on 51-I and STS-26. Education: M.S. in astrogeophysics.
Back row, left to right: Mission Specialist Robert Parker, DOB: 12/14/36, Background: Flew on STS-9. Education: Ph.D. in astronomy.
Payload Specialist Ronald Parise, Born: 1952, Background: Astronomical researcher. Education: Ph.D. in astronomy.
Mission Specialist Jeffrey Hoffman, DOB: 11/24/44, Background: Flight simulator tester. Mission specialist on 51-D and STS-46. Education: Ph.D. in astrophysics.
Payload Specialist Samuel Durrance, DOB: 9/17/43, Background: Research scientist. Education: M.S. in physics; Ph.D. in astrogeophysics.!
2 December 1990 1:49 a.m. EST
Launch was originally set for 16 May but reset numerous times over several months due to mechanical problems related to the fueling system. Finally after several repair and testing sequences the launch date of 2 December was scheduled.!
