If you care for such stuff, be sure to watch the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery at 3:49 p.m. EDT online via NASA's live television.  (Right now I'm watching the astronauts being strapped into their seats.)  The TV coverage is complete with live commentary, interviews, etc.  According to the launch blog, there was some lightning around the launch pad earlier, but so far all plans are a go.  If lightning is detected within about 12 miles of the pad near the time of liftoff, the launch will be postponed.

The New York Times has a story published this morning about the launch.  There has still been concern by some parties over the safety of the shuttles since the Columbia disaster in 2003, but NASA administrator Michael Griffin believes enough safety measures have been taken to ensure a successful mission.  Apparently one astronaut, Charlie Camarda, who flew on last year's Discovery mission, was fired for voicing too much criticism of today's launch (HT to Slashdot).

This mission, STS-121, will deliver cargo to the International Space Station, perform maintenance, and test new equipment and safety procedures.

Courtesy NASA