The Space Shuttle Discovery took off on its maiden voyage
on this day in history.

For Discovery, the fourth time was the charm: The previous
three launch attempts were scrubbed, with one canceled
just six seconds before liftoff.

That aborted launch — the first of its kind for the Space
Shuttle program — occurred on June 26, 1984.

The mission was called off after an issue was discovered
with one of the main engines. 

Discovery deployed three satellites: the Satellite Business
System SBS-D; the SYCOM IV-2 (also known as LEASAT-2);
and the TELSTAR.

The crew assigned to the mission included (seated left to
right) Richard M. (Mike) Mullane, mission specialist; Steven
A. Hawley, mission specialist; Henry W. Hartsfield,
commander; and Michael L. (Mike) Coats, pilot.
Standing in the rear are Charles D. Walker, payload
specialist; and Judith A. (Judy) Resnik, mission specialist.