|  |  | First Shuttle Launch [PIC] apod.nasa.gov — On April 12, 1981, twenty years ago today, the Space Shuttle Columbia became the first shuttle to orbit the Earth. In this gorgeous time exposure, flood lights play on the Columbia and service structures (left) as it rests atop Complex 39's Pad A at Kennedy Space Center in preparation for first launch. Flown by Commander John W. Young.More... (Space) Comments Email Added 2008-03-11 12:55:59 chris1234