NASA's Next Shuttle Launches Colorado into Space

Colorado astronaut Steve Swanson is here to get on to his very first journey into space during space shuttle Atlantis' upcoming mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis has been scheduled for launch into the space from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Florida., on June 8 at 7:38 p.m. EDT.

Steve Swanson thinks of Steamboat Springs, Co., where he was raised and attended school, as his hometown. He also received his bachelor's degree from the University of Colorado, Boulder, in 1983.

Steve Swanson is one of seven Atlantis astronauts who will deliver and help install a new set of giant solar panels on the space station during the 11-day mission, designated STS-117.

Steve Swanson will work as a robotic arm operator and will conduct one of three spacewalks during the flight.