1979    The first fully functional space shuttle orbiter, ''Columbia'', is delivered to the John F. Kennedy Space Center to be prepared for its first launch.

1981    The first launch of a Space Shuttle: ''Columbia'' launches on the STS-1 mission. thumb

1981    Space Shuttle program: Mission STS-2, utilizing the Space Shuttle Columbia, marks the first time a manned spacecraft is launched into space twice.

1982    NASA's Space Shuttle ''Columbia'', is launched from the Kennedy Space Center on its third mission, STS-3.

1982    Space Shuttle program: STS-3 Mission is completed with the landing of ''Columbia'' at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.

1982    Space Shuttle Columbia launched from the Kennedy Space Center on the final research and development flight mission, STS-4.

1986    Space Shuttle program: Congressman Bill Nelson lifts off from Kennedy Space Center aboard Columbia on mission STS-61C as a Mission Specialist.

1989    Space Shuttle program: STS-28 Mission – Space Shuttle Columbia takes off on a secret five-day military mission.

2003    The Space Shuttle ''Columbia'' takes off for mission STS-107 which would be its final one. Columbia disintegrated 16 days later on re-entry.