The space shuttle Atlantis launched on Friday morning on the last-ever scheduled US shuttle mission. Atlantis, carrying a crew of four astronauts, will dock with the International Space Station to deliver more than 3.5 tons of supplies. The ascent will mark the 135th and final journey of the US shuttle fleet; after Atlantis returns, astronauts will either rely on commercial space vehicles, or hitch rides to the ISS on Russian craft.

The space shuttle represents an important step in human exploration and innovation. And new ideas and technological development will come to the fore in years ahead as new methods of space transportation are developed. “So what’s new? Your thinking!” offers a fresh look at how each of us can pray to support that spirit of discovery and innovation, as we’re guided to new recognitions of God’s universe.