MOSCOW, July 16 (RIA Novosti) - The Endeavour space shuttle has been launched to the International Space Station after a month's delay, carrying seven astronauts.

The launch took place on Wednesday evening from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, after several postponements due to hydrogen leaks in June and this week's storms.

"Following a smooth countdown with no technical issues and weather that steadily improved throughout the afternoon, the shuttle lifted off from Launch Pad 39A and began its orbital chase of the International Space Station," NASA said.

The shuttle is expected to reach the orbital space station on Friday, to complete the assembly of Japan's Kibo laboratory.

During Wednesday's takeoff, pieces of foam were seen peeling off the shuttle's fuel tank. However, NASA's associate administrator for space operations, Bill Gerstenmaier said the damage was "probably coating losses," and would not pose a problem.

He said the mission will be "very challenging," with five spacewalks and robotic activities.

"The teams are fully prepared - they're ready to go do what they need to go do, and we look forward to the exciting activities as we install the Exposed Facility out on the Kibo module," he said.