Nasa has successfully launched the Endeavour shuttle on its way to the International Space Station (ISS).

The STS-130 mission will include the delivery of the Tranquility node that will provide additional room for astronauts and the ISS’s life support and environmental control systems.

The spacecraft and six astronauts will also carry a cupola featuring a robotic control station and seven windows that will be attached to Tranquillity to provide a panoramic view of Earth, celestial objects and visiting spacecraft.

The 13-day mission will also include three space walks and with the node and cupola added, the space station will be about 90% complete.

The launch was initially scheduled for 7 February 2010, but was delayed a day as clouds lowered near the launch pad at the Kennedy Space Centre.

This lift-off marks Endeavour’s 24th mission and the 33rd shuttle flight for station assembly and maintenance.