The shuttle launches are pretty much fully automatic. That is, the commander doesn't do of the roll, pitch and what have you. A fairly recent NASA policy is to shut of the main engines whilst still on a sub-orbital path, allowing the External Tank to reenter the atmosphere allowing it to not become part of the increasing amount of Space Junk. I'm fairly sure after the Main Engine cut off, the commander and pilot do the rest of the initial orbital insertion.
My guess is they don't train overly much with the launch, as I think the only time they havn't used the automated system was the very first launch (its pretty stable). Therefore, if there
was an error in the automated take-off system, it would become fairly vital to know at what point the shuttle is required to roll over, release the ET and allow control to the Astronauts. Although, you'd think they would just use their fuel meter. There's probably some good reason for it
On a quick similar note, does anyone agree with me on simply mothballing the Shuttle fleet now? (EDIT: Sorry Slice of Heaven, didn't see your post). I would think it to be much safer and easier to simply cut the shuttles, give the running money to the Russians to use for Soyuz and Progress craft (to transport humans, stages supplies) whilst NASA concentrated on the CEV. Though I know this isn't realistic at all (it was a quick thought I had whilst eating Breakfast) I think it would be a safer decision... the shuttles are old. Reusable spacecraft are the ideas of the past. Then again, can a Proton or whatever lifter the Russians use carry some of the parts of the ISS?
Good luck to the crew!!!! and enjoy the trip.
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