For some time, space scientists have notice that astronauts were coming back with a variety of health complaints after spending prolonged periods in space. Their immune systems were depressed, they had trouble keeping their balance, they lost muscle and suffered symptoms of osteoporosis. All of these ailments are among some of the most common complaint of the elderly here on Earth. Senator John Glenn pushed hard to get NASA to carry out this mission, just as he pushed hard to have himself assigned as the mission's sole, elderly 'guinea pig'. NASA has been roundly criticized for its decision to put him on Discovery.
Opponents question the wisdom of sending a weathy senator into space.
Many are say this is simply a publicity stunt for NASA, though no one has said this wasn't a wise move. If all things go as planned, Discovery is due to land back at the Kennedy Space Center at noon EST on November 7, after traveling a more than 5.6 million kilometres. Canada Inc. Discovery Canada 2001. All Rights Reserved.