Definition of "heavenwards"

Nabby Adams had nearly fallen, but six feet eight inches of integrity had reared itself heavenwards just in time.

1956, Anthony Burgess, Time for a Tiger (The Malayan Trilogy), published 1972, page 127

'Aaah!' they sigh, as the silvery Space Shuttle races heavenwards on top of a towering pillar of flame.

1985, Joan Morrison, chapter 5, in Share House Blues, Boolarong Publications, page 62