After Endeavour clears the launch tower Friday and is in orbit, the astronauts' families will join shuttle workers in a tradition that dates back to the very first shuttle launch -- eating navy beans and corn bread.
It all began innocently in 1981 when then-NASA test director Norm Carlson brought in a small crock pot of beans and some corn bread. After the successful launch, hungry workers quickly devoured the meal.
Carlson repeated the menu for the second launch, this time bringing in two crock pots. Eventually he started making the beans in an 18-quart cooker.
Preparing the beans and corn bread became an official NASA function when Carlson retired.
About 60 gallons worth of beans will be made for Friday's launch and enjoyed once Endeavour lifts off safely.
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