STS 1: First Shuttle Launch . ... Credit Copyright: KSC , NASA Explanation: 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. ... Today also marks the 40th anniversary of the first human in space, Yuri Gagarin . ... NASA Official: Jay Norris. ...