The U.S. space shuttle Endeavour launched into space on Monday, in what will make NASA's second-to-last shuttle flight. The shuttle is being commanded by Mark Kelly, husband to Arizona Democratic Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, who was in attendance for the launch. NASA is winding down its 30-year-old shuttle program before embarking on something new. The launch was initially set for April 29, before it had to be delayed because of technical difficulties. Endeavour and its experienced crew of five Americans and an Italian are headed for the International Space Station. They will arrive at the orbiting outpost Wednesday, delivering a $2 billion magnetic instrument that will seek out antimatter and dark energy in the universe. Up to 45,000 guests attending the event at NASA's launch site, and thousands packed area roads and towns to see Endeavour soar one last time. Only one shuttle flight remains.
