Atlantis begins its journey back to Earth

HOUSTON, Feb. 18 (UPI) -- Space shuttle Atlantis ended its nearly nine-day mission to the International Space Station by undocking early Monday.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration said shortly after separation, the shuttle flew around the space station to allow a close inspection of its heat shield prior to setting course for Earth.

The shuttle arrived at the station Feb. 9, delivering the European Space Agency's Columbus laboratory. The crews installed Columbus Feb. 11 and conducted three spacewalks to prepare Columbus for its scientific work. They also replaced an expended nitrogen tank on the station's P1 truss.

In addition, Atlantis delivered a new station crew member, flight engineer Leopold Eyharts, an ESA astronaut. He replaced astronaut Daniel Tani, who is returning to Earth aboard Atlantis.

NASA controllers in Houston said Wednesday's landing opportunities at the Kennedy Space Center are at 9:07 a.m. and 10:42 a.m. EST. There are additional opportunities at 12:12 p.m. and 1:47 p.m. EST at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., which is a backup landing site.