Final Mission
Before handing over control, flight director salutes JSC team
By Eric Berger on July 21, 2011 at 6:32 AM
Johnson Space Center's shuttle mission control is no more.
Now that Atlantis has landed the facility will no longer control flights, and so it was an emotional moment when Tony Ceccacci passed control of the shuttle from JSC back to orbiter processors at Kennedy Space Center.
Ceccacci on console during STS-132. (NASA)
Hunched forward, chin resting on his left palm, Ceccacci told his flight team to savor the moment.
Each one of you should take great pride in the accomplishments you have achieved, and know that you are the main reason for the success of the space shuttle program.
Ceccacci then said the shuttle program was a vital building block for the future of NASA.
Today is also a moment for the history books. The work done in this room, in this building, will never be duplicated. I believe that the accomplishments of the shuttle program will become the next set of shoulders of giants for future programs to stand on. Hold your heads up high as we close out the space shuttle program. You have earned it. Savor the moment. Soak it in. Know that you are the best in the world. Work here has made America and the world a better place.
During a news conference Wednesday Ceccacci vowed not to cry, and he did not. Instead he laughed and smiled as those on console in mission control applauded him. The room then filled with well wishers.
It is certain to feel quiet and lonely tomorrow.