kennedy space center

us national archives

nasa

free illustrations

exercise

dvids

check

function, kennedy space center

152 media by topic ∙ page 1 of 2

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, is exposed after removal of the shipping container. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2962

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, is exposed after removal of the shipp... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers secure the work stand holding the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2973

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers secure the work stand holding the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES.... More

Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, is unloaded in its container from an Air Force C-5 jet cargo transport at KSC’s Shuttle Landing Facility runway on June 23 after its arrival from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The module was then transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The Node 1 module is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998 along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot in diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at MSFC. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other Space Station elements KSC-97PC923

Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be ma...

Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, is unloaded in its container from an Air Force C-5 jet c... More

The container transporting the Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, is moved into the Space Station Processing Facility high bay June 23 after its arrival from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The Node 1 module is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998 along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot in diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at MSFC. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC924

The container transporting the Node 1, the first element of the Inter...

The container transporting the Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, is moved into the Space S... More

Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, is unloaded in its container from an Air Force C-5 jet cargo transport at KSC’s Shuttle Landing Facility runway on June 23 after its arrival from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The module was then transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The Node 1 module is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998 along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at MSFC. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other Space Station elements KSC-97PC922

Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be ma...

Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, is unloaded in its container from an Air Force C-5 jet c... More

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processing Facility high bay after its arrival at KSC from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The Node 1 module is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998 along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot in diameter, 22- foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at MSFC. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC930

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to b...

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processi... More

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processing Facility high bay after its arrival at KSC from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The Node 1 module is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998 along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22- foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at MSFC. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC927

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to b...

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processi... More

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processing Facility high bay after its arrival at KSC from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The Node 1 module is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998 along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot in diameter, 22- foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at MSFC. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC929

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to b...

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processi... More

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processing Facility high bay after its arrival at KSC from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The Node 1 module is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998 along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot in diameter, 22- foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at MSFC. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC931

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to b...

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processi... More

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processing Facility high bay after its arrival at KSC from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The Node 1 module is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998 along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot in diameter, 22- foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at MSFC. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC928

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to b...

The Node 1, the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first to be launched on the Space Shuttle, rests in its container in the Space Station Processi... More

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is hoisted for installation in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station KSC-97PC936

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 i...

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is hoisted for installation in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International... More

A KSC payloads processing employee removes a protective sheath part of the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC939

A KSC payloads processing employee removes a protective sheath part ...

A KSC payloads processing employee removes a protective sheath part of the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Stati... More

A close-up view of the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility shows one of its six hatches that will serve as docking ports. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. The six hatches on the Node 1 will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC940

A close-up view of the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station...

A close-up view of the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility shows one of its six hatches that will serve as docking ports. The module is the first element of the International Sp... More

A close-up view of the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility shows two of its six hatches that will serve as docking ports. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. The six hatches on the Node 1 will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC941

A close-up view of the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station...

A close-up view of the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility shows two of its six hatches that will serve as docking ports. The module is the first element of the International Sp... More

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is hoisted from its transporting container for installation in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC935

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 i...

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is hoisted from its transporting container for installation in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the fi... More

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is installed in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC934

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 i...

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is installed in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station ... More

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is hoisted for installation in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC933

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 i...

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is hoisted for installation in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International... More

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is hoisted for installation in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC932

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 i...

Covered in a protective sheath, International Space Station Node 1 is hoisted for installation in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International... More

KSC workers begin to remove a protective sheath from the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot- long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC938

KSC workers begin to remove a protective sheath from the Node 1 in i...

KSC workers begin to remove a protective sheath from the Node 1 in its work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactur... More

Members of the STS-88 crew examine the Node 1 of the Internation Space Station in the high bay of the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. The six hatches on the Node 1 will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC943

Members of the STS-88 crew examine the Node 1 of the Internation Space...

Members of the STS-88 crew examine the Node 1 of the Internation Space Station in the high bay of the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be ... More

Members of the STS-88 crew examine the Node 1 of the International Space Station in the high bay of the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the ISS to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the ISS. The six hatches on the Node 1 will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other Space Station elements KSC-97PC942

Members of the STS-88 crew examine the Node 1 of the International Spa...

Members of the STS-88 crew examine the Node 1 of the International Space Station in the high bay of the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the ISS to be manufactured in the U... More

Members of the STS-88 crew examine the Node 1 of the Internation Space Station in the high bay of the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. The six hatches on the Node 1 will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC945

Members of the STS-88 crew examine the Node 1 of the Internation Space...

Members of the STS-88 crew examine the Node 1 of the Internation Space Station in the high bay of the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be ... More

Members of the STS-88 crew pose with the Node 1 of the Internation Space Station in the high bay of the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to be manufactured in the United States and the first scheduled to be launched on the Space Shuttle. The Node 1 is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 1998, along with Pressurized Mating Adapters (PMAs) 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, the Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the International Space Station. The six hatches on the Node 1 will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-97PC944

Members of the STS-88 crew pose with the Node 1 of the Internation Spa...

Members of the STS-88 crew pose with the Node 1 of the Internation Space Station in the high bay of the Space Station Processing Facility. The module is the first element of the International Space Station to b... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Mission STS-90, is shown in its holding tank in the Space Station Processing Facility. Each fish is between eight and 14 inches long. Toadfish live in an estuarine environment and are native to areas along the Northeast coast of the United States. Since they are bottom dwellers that live in cracks and crevices, a tube is provided in its tank to give it a place to retreat and hide. Investigations during the Neurolab mission will focus on the effects of microgravity on the nervous system. This fish is an excellent model for looking at vestibular function because the architecture of its inner and middle ear are similar to those of mammals with respect to the vestibular apparatus. The crew of STS-90, slated for launch April 16 at 2:19 p.m. EDT, includes Commander Richard Searfoss, Pilot Scott Altman, Mission Specialists Richard Linnehan, Dafydd (Dave) Williams, M.D., and Kathryn (Kay) Hire, and Payload Specialists Jay Buckey, M.D., and James Pawelczyk, Ph.D KSC-98pc418

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Mission STS-90, is shown in its holding tank in the Space Station Processing Fac... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Mission STS-90, are shown in their holding tank in the Space Station Processing Facility. Each fish is between 8 and 14 inches long. Toadfish live in an estuarine environment and are native to areas along the Northeast coast of the United States. Since they are bottom dwellers that live in cracks and crevices, tubes are provided in their tank to give them a place to retreat and hide. Investigations during the Neurolab mission will focus on the effects of microgravity on the nervous system. The toadfish fish is an excellent model for looking at vestibular function because the architecture of its inner and middle ear are similar to those of mammals with respect to the vestibular apparatus. The crew of STS-90, slated for launch April 16 at 2:19 p.m. EDT, includes Commander Richard Searfoss, Pilot Scott Altman, Mission Specialists Richard Linnehan, Dafydd (Dave) Williams, M.D., and Kathryn (Kay) Hire, and Payload Specialists Jay Buckey, M.D., and James Pawelczyk, Ph.D KSC-98PC417

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like thos...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Mission STS-90, are shown in their holding tank in the Space Station Processing Fac... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Mission STS-90, is shown in its holding tank in the Space Station Processing Facility. Each fish is between eight and 14 inches long. Toadfish live in an estuarine environment and are native to areas along the Northeast coast of the United States. Investigations during the Neurolab mission will focus on the effects of microgravity on the nervous system. This fish is an excellent model for looking at vestibular function because the architecture of its inner and middle ear are similar to those of mammals with respect to the vestibular apparatus. The crew of STS-90, slated for launch April 16 at 2:19 p.m. EDT, includes Commander Richard Searfoss, Pilot Scott Altman, Mission Specialists Richard Linnehan, Dafydd (Dave) Williams, M.D., and Kathryn (Kay) Hire, and Payload Specialists Jay Buckey, M.D., and James Pawelczyk, Ph.D KSC-98pc414

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Mission STS-90, is shown in its holding tank in the Space Station Processing Fac... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Mission STS-90, is shown in its holding tank in the Space Station Processing Facility. Each fish is between eight and 14 inches long. Toadfish live in an estuarine environment and are native to areas along the Northeast coast of the United States. Investigations during the Neurolab mission will focus on the effects of microgravity on the nervous system. This fish is an excellent model for looking at vestibular function because the architecture of its inner and middle ear are similar to those of mammals with respect to the vestibular apparatus. The crew of STS-90, slated for launch April 16 at 2:19 p.m. EDT, includes Commander Richard Searfoss, Pilot Scott Altman, Mission Specialists Richard Linnehan, Dafydd (Dave) Williams, M.D., and Kathryn (Kay) Hire, and Payload Specialists Jay Buckey, M.D., and James Pawelczyk, Ph.D KSC-98pc415

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Mission STS-90, is shown in its holding tank in the Space Station Processing Fac... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Bill Kroeger, an aquatic technician for the Bionetics Corporation, examines an oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Mission STS-90, in its holding tank in the Space Station Processing Facility. Each fish is between eight and 14 inches long. Toadfish live in an estuarine environment and are native to areas along the Northeast coast of the United States. Investigations during the Neurolab mission will focus on the effects of microgravity on the nervous system. This fish is an excellent model for looking at vestibular function because the architecture of its inner and middle ear are similar to those of mammals with respect to the vestibular apparatus. The crew of STS-90, slated for launch April 16 at 2:19 p.m. EDT, includes Commander Richard Searfoss, Pilot Scott Altman, Mission Specialists Richard Linnehan, Dafydd (Dave) Williams, M.D., and Kathryn (Kay) Hire, and Payload Specialists Jay Buckey, M.D., and James Pawelczyk, Ph.D KSC-98pc416

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Bill Kroeger, an aquatic technician for ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Bill Kroeger, an aquatic technician for the Bionetics Corporation, examines an oyster toadfish (Opsanus tau), like those that are part of the Neurolab payload on Space Shuttle Miss... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Boeing technicians move a piece of hardware into position on Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility in preparation for mating with Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2. The node is the first element of the ISS to be manufactured in the United States and is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-88 later this year, along with PMAs 1 and 2. The 18-foot-in-diameter, 22-foot-long aluminum module was manufactured by the Boeing Co. at Marshall Space Flight Center. Once in space, Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the ISS. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-98pc539

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Boeing technicians move a piece of hardw...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Boeing technicians move a piece of hardware into position on Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility in preparation for mating wi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is moved into position against Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility for pre-mating preparations. The node is the first element of the ISS to be manufactured in the United States and is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-88 later this year, along with PMAs 1 and 2. This PMA is a cone-shaped connector to Node 1, which will have two PMAs attached once this mate is completed. Once in space, Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the ISS. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-98pc541

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is mo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is moved into position against Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility for pre-mating preparat... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is moved toward Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility for pre-mating preparations. The node is the first element of the ISS to be manufactured in the United States and is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-88 later this year, along with PMAs 1 and 2. This PMA is a cone-shaped connector to Node 1, which will have two PMAs attached once this mate is completed. Once in space, Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the ISS. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-98pc540

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is mo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is moved toward Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility for pre-mating preparations. The node ... More

Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is in the process of being mated to Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) under the supervision of Boeing technicians in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF). The node is the first element of the ISS to be manufactured in the United States and is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-88 later this year, along with PMAs 1 and 2. This PMA is a cone-shaped connector to Node 1, which will have two PMAs attached once this mate is completed. Once in space, Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the ISS. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-98pc592

Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is in the process of being mated to...

Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is in the process of being mated to Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) under the supervision of Boeing technicians in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility (SSP... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is moved into position to be mated to Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) by Boeing technicians in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF). The node is the first element of the ISS to be manufactured in the United States and is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-88 later this year, along with PMAs 1 and 2. This PMA is a cone-shaped connector to Node 1, which will have two PMAs attached once this mate is completed. Once in space, Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the ISS. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-98pc589

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is mo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is moved into position to be mated to Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) by Boeing technicians in KSC's Space Station Processing Fac... More

Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is moved into position to be mated to Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) by Boeing technicians in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF). The node is the first element of the ISS to be manufactured in the United States and is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-88 later this year, along with PMAs 1 and 2. This PMA is a cone-shaped connector to Node 1, which will have two PMAs attached once this mate is completed. Once in space, Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the ISS. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-98pc591

Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is moved into position to be mated ...

Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 is moved into position to be mated to Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) by Boeing technicians in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF). The node is the ... More

Boeing technicians discuss mating Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 to Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF). The node is the first element of the ISS to be manufactured in the United States and is currently scheduled to lift off aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-88 later this year, along with PMAs 1 and 2. This PMA is a cone-shaped connector to Node 1, which will have two PMAs attached once this mate is completed. Once in space, Node 1 will function as a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of the ISS. It has six hatches that will serve as docking ports to the U.S. laboratory module, U.S. habitation module, an airlock and other space station elements KSC-98pc590

Boeing technicians discuss mating Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 t...

Boeing technicians discuss mating Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA)-2 to Node 1 of the International Space Station (ISS) in KSC's Space Station Processing Facility (SSPF). The node is the first element of the IS... More

STS-95 crew members gather around the Vestibular Function Experiment Unit (VFEU) which includes marine fish called toadfish. In foreground, from left, are Mission Specialist Pedro Duque of the European Space Agency (ESA), a technician from the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), Payload Specialist Chiaki Mukai of NASDA, Pilot Steven W. Lindsey, and Payload Specialist John H. Glenn Jr., who also is a senator from Ohio. At center, facing the camera, are Mission Specialist Scott E. Parazynski and Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., in back. STS-95 will feature a variety of research payloads, including the Spartan solar-observing deployable spacecraft, the Hubble Space Telescope Orbital Systems Platform, the International Extreme Ultraviolet Hitchhiker, and experiments on space flight and the aging process. STS-95 is targeted for an Oct. 29 launch aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery KSC-98pc863

STS-95 crew members gather around the Vestibular Function Experiment U...

STS-95 crew members gather around the Vestibular Function Experiment Unit (VFEU) which includes marine fish called toadfish. In foreground, from left, are Mission Specialist Pedro Duque of the European Space Ag... More

STS-95 Payload Specialist Chiaki Mukai (left), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), lifts the cover on a container in the Vestibular Function Experiment Unit holding one of the two toadfish that are the subjects of an experiment. Mission Specialist Scott E. Parazynski is helping her check experiments for mission STS-95. The fish will be electronically monitored to determine the effect of gravitational changes on the inner-ear system. Mukai and Parazynski and other crewmembers were making final preparations for launch, targeted for liftoff at 2 p.m. on Oct. 29. The STS-95 crew also includes Mission Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., Pilot Steven W. Lindsey, Mission Specialist Stephen K. Robinson, Payload Specialist John H. Glenn Jr., senator from Ohio, and Mission Specialist Pedro Duque, with the European Space Agency (ESA). The mission is expected to last 8 days, 21 hours and 49 minutes, returning to KSC at 11:49 a.m. EST on Nov. 7 KSC-98pc1421

STS-95 Payload Specialist Chiaki Mukai (left), with the National Space...

STS-95 Payload Specialist Chiaki Mukai (left), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), lifts the cover on a container in the Vestibular Function Experiment Unit holding one of the two toadf... More

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the first stage of a Lockheed Martin Atlas II rocket is lifted into an upright position. The rocket will be used to launch the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-L (GOES-L). GOES-L is the latest in the current series of advanced geostationary weather satellites in service. Once in orbit, it will become GOES-11 and function as an on-orbit spare to be activated when one of the operational satellites needs to be replaced. Launch is scheduled for Saturday, May 15 at the opening of a launch window which extends from 2:23 to 4:41 a.m. EDT KSC-99pp0423

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the first stage o...

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the first stage of a Lockheed Martin Atlas II rocket is lifted into an upright position. The rocket will be used to launch the Geostationary Operational Envi... More

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the first stage of a Lockheed Martin Atlas II rocket has been lifted into an upright position. The rocket will be used to launch the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-L (GOES-L). GOES-L is the latest in the current series of advanced geostationary weather satellites in service. Once in orbit, it will become GOES-11 and function as an on-orbit spare to be activated when one of the operational satellites needs to be replaced. Launch is scheduled for Saturday, May 15 at the opening of a launch window which extends from 2:23 to 4:41 a.m. EDT KSC-99pp0424

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the first stage o...

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the first stage of a Lockheed Martin Atlas II rocket has been lifted into an upright position. The rocket will be used to launch the Geostationary Operationa... More

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the first stage of a Lockheed Martin Atlas II rocket is lifted into an upright position. The rocket will be used to launch the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-L (GOES-L). GOES-L is the latest in the current series of advanced geostationary weather satellites in service. Once in orbit, it will become GOES-11 and function as an on-orbit spare to be activated when one of the operational satellites needs to be replaced. Launch is scheduled for Saturday, May 15 at the opening of a launch window which extends from 2:23 to 4:41 a.m. EDT KSC-99pp0422

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the first stage o...

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, the first stage of a Lockheed Martin Atlas II rocket is lifted into an upright position. The rocket will be used to launch the Geostationary Operational Envi... More

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, technicians prepare to erect the first stage of a Lockheed Martin Atlas II rocket which will be used to launch the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-L (GOES-L). GOES-L is the latest in the current series of advanced geostationary weather satellites in service. Once in orbit, it will become GOES-11 and function as an on-orbit spare to be activated when one of the operational satellites needs to be replaced. Launch is scheduled for Saturday, May 15 at the opening of a launch window which extends from 2:23 to 4:41 a.m. EDT KSC-99pp0421

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, technicians prepa...

At Launch Pad 36A on the Cape Canaveral Air Station, technicians prepare to erect the first stage of a Lockheed Martin Atlas II rocket which will be used to launch the Geostationary Operational Environmental Sa... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Looking over a Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3) in the Space Station Processing Facility are Arne Aamodt, with Johnson Space Center, Yuriy Vladimirovich Usachev and Susan J. Helms. Usachev and Helms are two members of the STS-102 crew, who will be staying on the International Space Station (ISS). The third crew member is James S. Voss. They have been designated the Expedition II crew. Mission STS-102 also will be carrying the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) to the ISS. The Leonardo will be filled with equipment and supplies to outfit the U.S. laboratory module, which will have been carried to the ISS on a preceding Shuttle flight. In order to function as an attached station module as well as a cargo transport, logistics modules (there are three) also include components that provide some life support, fire detection and suppression, electrical distribution and computer functions. Eventually, the modules also will carry refrigerator freezers for transporting experiment samples and food to and from the station. On the return of STS-102 to Earth, it will bring back the first crew on the station: Bill Shepherd, Sergei Krikalev and Yuri Gidzenko. STS-102 is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 19, 2000, from Launch Pad 39A, Kennedy Space Center KSC-99pp1375

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Looking over a Pressurized Mating Adapte...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Looking over a Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3) in the Space Station Processing Facility are Arne Aamodt, with Johnson Space Center, Yuriy Vladimirovich Usachev and Susan J. Helm... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From a work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-102 crew members James S. Voss (left) and Yuriy Vladimirovich Usachev (right), of Russia, look over the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3). The PMA-3 is a component of the International Space Station (ISS). Voss and Usachev are two crew members who will be staying on the ISS as the Expedition II crew. The third is Susan J. Helms. Along with the crew, Mission STS-102 also will be carrying the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) to the ISS. The Leonardo will be filled with equipment and supplies to outfit the U.S. laboratory module, which will have been carried to the ISS on a preceding Shuttle flight. In order to function as an attached station module as well as a cargo transport, logistics modules (there are three) also include components that provide some life support, fire detection and suppression, electrical distribution and computer functions. Eventually, the modules also will carry refrigerator freezers for transporting experiment samples and food to and from the station. On the return of STS-102 to Earth, it will bring back the first crew on the station: Bill Shepherd, Sergei Krikalev and Yuri Gidzenko. STS-102 is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 19, 2000, from Launch Pad 39A, Kennedy Space Center KSC-99pp1378

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From a work stand in the Space Station P...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From a work stand in the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-102 crew members James S. Voss (left) and Yuriy Vladimirovich Usachev (right), of Russia, look over the Pressurized ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-102's Expedition II discuss the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3) (top of photo) with workers from Johnson Space Center. From left are Yuriy Vladimirovich Usachev, Dave Moore (JSC), Susan J. Helms, James S. Voss, Arne Aamodt and Matt Myers (both of JSC). The PMA-3 is a component of the International Space Station (ISS). Voss, Helms and Usachev will be staying on the ISS, replacing the Expedition I crew, Bill Shepherd, Sergei Krikalev and Yuri Gidzenko. Along with the crew, Mission STS-102 also will be carrying the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) to the ISS. The Leonardo will be filled with equipment and supplies to outfit the U.S. laboratory module, which will have been carried to the ISS on a preceding Shuttle flight. In order to function as an attached station module as well as a cargo transport, logistics modules (there are three) also include components that provide some life support, fire detection and suppression, electrical distribution and computer functions. Eventually, the modules also will carry refrigerator freezers for transporting experiment samples and food to and from the station. STS-102 is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 19, 2000, from Launch Pad 39A, Kennedy Space Center KSC-99pp1379

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-102's Expedition II discuss the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3) (top of photo) with workers from Johnson Space Center. From left ar... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the STS-102 crew, known as the Expedition II crew, and workers from Johnson Space Center get a close look at the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3) in the Space Station Processing Facility. The PMA-3 is a component of the International Space Station (ISS). Making up the Expedition II crew are James S. Voss, Susan J. Helms and Yuriy Vladimirovich Usachev, of Russia. Along with the crew, Mission STS-102 also will be carrying the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) to the ISS. The Leonardo will be filled with equipment and supplies to outfit the U.S. laboratory module, which will have been carried to the ISS on a preceding Shuttle flight. In order to function as an attached station module as well as a cargo transport, logistics modules (there are three) also include components that provide some life support, fire detection and suppression, electrical distribution and computer functions. Eventually, the modules also will carry refrigerator freezers for transporting experiment samples and food to and from the station. On the return of STS-102 to Earth, it will bring back the first crew on the station: Bill Shepherd, Sergei Krikalev and Yuri Gidzenko. STS-102 is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 19, 2000, from Launch Pad 39A, Kennedy Space Center KSC-99pp1377

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the STS-102 crew, known as th...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the STS-102 crew, known as the Expedition II crew, and workers from Johnson Space Center get a close look at the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3) in the Space Station ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-102 crew member Susan J. Helms looks over a Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3) in the Space Station Processing Facility. The PMA-3 is a component of the International Space Station (ISS). Helms is one of three who will be staying on the ISS as the Expedition II crew. The others are Yuriy Vladimirovich Usachev and James S. Voss. Along with the crew, Mission STS-102 also will be carrying the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) to the ISS. The Leonardo will be filled with equipment and supplies to outfit the U.S. laboratory module, which will have been carried to the ISS on a preceding Shuttle flight. In order to function as an attached station module as well as a cargo transport, logistics modules (there are three) also include components that provide some life support, fire detection and suppression, electrical distribution and computer functions. Eventually, the modules also will carry refrigerator freezers for transporting experiment samples and food to and from the station. On the return of STS-102 to Earth, it will bring back the first crew on the station: Bill Shepherd, Sergei Krikalev and Yuri Gidzenko. STS-102 is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 19, 2000, from Launch Pad 39A, Kennedy Space Center KSC-99pp1376

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-102 crew member Susan J. Helms looks...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-102 crew member Susan J. Helms looks over a Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3) in the Space Station Processing Facility. The PMA-3 is a component of the International Space Sta... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, members of the STS-102 crew pose with workers from Johnson Space Center in front of the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3), a component of the International Space Station (ISS). From left are Dave Moore (JSC), Susan J. Helms, Arne Aamodt (JSC), Yuriy Vladimirovich Usachev, Matt Myers (JSC) and James S. Voss. Voss, Helms and Usachev, known as the Expedition II crew, will be staying on the ISS, replacing the Expedition I crew, Bill Shepherd, Sergei Krikalev and Yuri Gidzenko. Along with the crew, Mission STS-102 also will be carrying the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) to the ISS. The Leonardo will be filled with equipment and supplies to outfit the U.S. laboratory module, which will have been carried to the ISS on a preceding Shuttle flight. In order to function as an attached station module as well as a cargo transport, logistics modules (there are three) also include components that provide some life support, fire detection and suppression, electrical distribution and computer functions. Eventually, the modules also will carry refrigerator freezers for transporting experiment samples and food to and from the station. STS-102 is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 19, 2000, from Launch Pad 39A, Kennedy Space Center KSC-99pp1380

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, members of the STS-102 crew pose with workers from Johnson Space Center in front of the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA-3), a component of... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Dynamac worker (left) explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group: in the center, Laura O’Keefe and NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe; at right, Florida Gov. Jeb Bush flanked by his wife, Columba on the left and Bernadette Kennedy, wife of Center Director Jim Kennedy. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida. The tour followed the launching ceremony at the KSC Visitor Complex for the new Florida quarter issued by the U.S. Mint. The ceremony was emceed Kennedy and included remarks by O’Keefe, Bush, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman. KSC-04pd0794

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Dynamac worker (left) explains the fun...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A Dynamac worker (left) explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group: in the center, Laura O’Keefe and NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist(left), explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group: (from left) Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and his wife, Columba; NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe and his wife, Laura; and U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida. The tour followed the launching ceremony at the KSC Visitor Complex for the new Florida quarter issued by the U.S. Mint. The ceremony was emceed by Center Director Jim Kennedy and included remarks by O’Keefe, Bush, Fore and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman. KSC-04pd0792

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist(left), ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist(left), explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group: (from left) Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and his wife, ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist (left) in the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab, explains the function of the facility to Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and his wife, Columba. Bush and others were touring the Lab following the launching ceremony at the KSC Visitor Complex for the new Florida quarter issued by the U.S. Mint. . The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida. The launching ceremony was emceed by Center Director Jim Kennedy and included remarks by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, Bush, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman. KSC-04pd0793

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist (left) i...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist (left) in the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab, explains the function of the facility to Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and his wife, Columba. Bush and oth... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist (right), explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group. From left are NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe and his wife, Laura; Florida Gov. Jeb Bush; Bernadette Kennedy, wife of the Center Director (CD); Columba Bush, wife of the governor; behind Mrs. Bush, former astronaut Winston Scott; and third from right, CD Jim Kennedy. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida. The tour followed the launching ceremony at the KSC Visitor Complex for the new Florida quarter issued by the U.S. Mint. The ceremony was emceed by Kennedy and included remarks by O’Keefe, Bush, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman. KSC-04pd0789

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist (right),...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist (right), explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group. From left are NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist(left), explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group: Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, left of center, and NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, and his wife, Laura, at right. Others in the group included former astronaut Winston Scott, U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore, and Center Director Jim Kennedy. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida. The tour followed the launching ceremony at the KSC Visitor Complex for the new Florida quarter issued by the U.S. Mint. The ceremony was emceed by Kennedy and included remarks by O’Keefe, Bush, Fore and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman. KSC-04pd0791

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist(left), e...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist(left), explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group: Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, left of center, and NASA A... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist(left), explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group. In the background at left is former astronaut Winston Scott; at center is Bernadette Kennedy, wife of the Center Director (CD); next to her are Columba and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush; third from right is NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, next to his wife, Laura; and on the far right is U.S. Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore. The new lab is a state-of-the-art facility built for ISS biotechnology research. It was developed as a partnership between NASA-KSC and the State of Florida. The tour followed the launching ceremony at the KSC Visitor Complex for the new Florida quarter issued by the U.S. Mint. The ceremony was emceed by CD Jim Kennedy and included remarks by O’Keefe, Bush, Fore and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Samuel W. Bodman. KSC-04pd0790

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist(left), e...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Yorio, a Dynamac scientist(left), explains the function of the KSC Space Life Sciences (SLS) Lab to a prestigious tour group. In the background at left is former astronaut Wi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers begin removal of the nose cap on top of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-121. The cap is being removed in order to install a new gaseous oxygen vent valve under the nose cap. Vapors are created prior to launch as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boils off. At the forward end of each external tank propellant tank is a vent and relief valve that can be opened before launch for venting or by excessive tank pressure for relief. The vent function is available only before launch. Mission STS-121 to the International Space Station is scheduled for launch in July. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0562

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA'...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers begin removal of the nose cap on top of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-121. ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the nose cap on top of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-121. The cap is being removed in order to install a new gaseous oxygen vent valve under the nose cap. Vapors are created prior to launch as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boils off. At the forward end of each external tank propellant tank is a vent and relief valve that can be opened before launch for venting or by excessive tank pressure for relief. The vent function is available only before launch. Mission STS-121 to the International Space Station is scheduled for launch in July. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0563

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the nose cap on top of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-121. The cap i... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the nose cap on top of external tank number 119 has been removed. A new gaseous oxygen vent valve will be installed. Tank 119 is designated for mission STS-121. Vapors are created prior to launch as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boils off. At the forward end of each external tank propellant tank is a vent and relief valve that can be opened before launch for venting or by excessive tank pressure for relief. The vent function is available only before launch. Mission STS-121 to the International Space Station is scheduled for launch in July. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0564

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the nose cap on top of external tank number 119 has been removed. A new gaseous oxygen vent valve will be installe... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building, workers get ready to ablate the rim around the nose cap of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-121. The cap was removed in order to install a new gaseous oxygen vent valve underneath. Vapors are created prior to launch as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boils off. At the forward end of each external tank propellant tank is a vent and relief valve that can be opened before launch for venting or by excessive tank pressure for relief. The vent function is available only before launch. Mission STS-121 to the International Space Station is scheduled for launch in July. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0614

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle As...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building, workers get ready to ablate the rim around the nose cap of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-12... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building, workers check the rim around the nose cap of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-121. The cap was removed in order to install a new gaseous oxygen vent valve underneath. Vapors are created prior to launch as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boils off. At the forward end of each external tank propellant tank is a vent and relief valve that can be opened before launch for venting or by excessive tank pressure for relief. The vent function is available only before launch. Mission STS-121 to the International Space Station is scheduled for launch in July. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0616

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Ass...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building, workers check the rim around the nose cap of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-121. The cap was... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building, workers work on the rim around the nose cap of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-121. The cap was removed in order to install a new gaseous oxygen vent valve underneath. Vapors are created prior to launch as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boils off. At the forward end of each external tank propellant tank is a vent and relief valve that can be opened before launch for venting or by excessive tank pressure for relief. The vent function is available only before launch. Mission STS-121 to the International Space Station is scheduled for launch in July. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0615

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle As...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building, workers work on the rim around the nose cap of external tank number 119, the tank designated for mission STS-121. The cap ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Atlantis, mounted on a mobile launch platform, finally rests on the hard stand of Launch Pad 39A after an early morning rollout. This is the second rollout for the shuttle. Seen on either side of the main engine exhaust hole on the launcher platform are the tail service masts. Their function is to provide umbilical connections for liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen lines to fuel the external tank from storage tanks adjacent to the launch pad. Other umbilical lines carry helium and nitrogen, as well as ground electrical power and connections for vehicle data and communications. First motion out of the Vehicle Assembly Building was at 5:02 a.m. EDT. In late February, while Atlantis was on the launch pad, Atlantis' external tank received hail damage during a severe thunderstorm that passed through the Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39 area. The hail caused visible divots in the giant tank's foam insulation, as well as minor surface damage to about 26 heat shield tiles on the shuttle's left wing. The shuttle was returned to the VAB for repairs. The launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-117 is now targeted for June 8. A flight readiness review will be held on May 30 and 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd1200

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Atlantis, mounted on a mo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Atlantis, mounted on a mobile launch platform, finally rests on the hard stand of Launch Pad 39A after an early morning rollout. This is the second rollout for the ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Mission Specialist Stanley Love heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back to Houston after launch of space shuttle Atlantis was delayed when a failure occurred in a fuel sensor system while the vehicle's external fuel tank was being filled. One of the four engine cutoff, or ECO, sensors inside the liquid hydrogen section of the tank gave a false reading and NASA's current Launch Commit Criteria require that all four sensors function properly. The sensor system is one of several that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shut down if fuel runs unexpectedly low. Space shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission now is targeted to launch no earlier than Jan. 2. The liftoff date depends on the resolution of the problem in the fuel sensor system. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3601

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Mission Specialist Stanley Love heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying bac... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Commander Steve Frick heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back to Houston after launch of space shuttle Atlantis was delayed when a failure occurred in a fuel sensor system while the vehicle's external fuel tank was being filled. One of the four engine cutoff, or ECO, sensors inside the liquid hydrogen section of the tank gave a false reading and NASA's current Launch Commit Criteria require that all four sensors function properly. The sensor system is one of several that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shut down if fuel runs unexpectedly low. Space shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission now is targeted to launch no earlier than Jan. 2. The liftoff date depends on the resolution of the problem in the fuel sensor system. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3604

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NAS...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Commander Steve Frick heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back to Hous... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back to Houston after launch of space shuttle Atlantis was delayed when a failure occurred in a fuel sensor system while the vehicle's external fuel tank was being filled. One of the four engine cutoff, or ECO, sensors inside the liquid hydrogen section of the tank gave a false reading and NASA's current Launch Commit Criteria require that all four sensors function properly. The sensor system is one of several that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shut down if fuel runs unexpectedly low. Space shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission now is targeted to launch no earlier than Jan. 2. The liftoff date depends on the resolution of the problem in the fuel sensor system. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3600

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back to Houst... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Mission Specialist Rex Walheim heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back to Houston after launch of space shuttle Atlantis was delayed when a failure occurred in a fuel sensor system while the vehicle's external fuel tank was being filled. One of the four engine cutoff, or ECO, sensors inside the liquid hydrogen section of the tank gave a false reading and NASA's current Launch Commit Criteria require that all four sensors function properly. The sensor system is one of several that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shut down if fuel runs unexpectedly low. Space shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission now is targeted to launch no earlier than Jan. 2. The liftoff date depends on the resolution of the problem in the fuel sensor system. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3602

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Mission Specialist Rex Walheim heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the plane carrying the STS-122 crew taxis toward the runway for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back to Houston after launch of space shuttle Atlantis was delayed when a failure occurred in a fuel sensor system while the vehicle's external fuel tank was being filled. One of the four engine cutoff, or ECO, sensors inside the liquid hydrogen section of the tank gave a false reading and NASA's current Launch Commit Criteria require that all four sensors function properly. The sensor system is one of several that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shut down if fuel runs unexpectedly low. Space shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission now is targeted to launch no earlier than Jan. 2. The liftoff date depends on the resolution of the problem in the fuel sensor system. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3605

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the plane carrying the STS-122 crew taxis toward the runway for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying b... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back to Houston after launch of space shuttle Atlantis was delayed when a failure occurred in a fuel sensor system while the vehicle's external fuel tank was being filled. Eyharts was scheduled to join the Expedition 16 crew aboard the International Space Station. One of the four engine cutoff, or ECO, sensors inside the liquid hydrogen section of the tank gave a false reading and NASA's current Launch Commit Criteria require that all four sensors function properly. The sensor system is one of several that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shut down if fuel runs unexpectedly low. Space shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission now is targeted to launch no earlier than Jan. 2. The liftoff date depends on the resolution of the problem in the fuel sensor system. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3603

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NAS...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Mission Specialist Leland Melvin heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying back to Houston after launch of space shuttle Atlantis was delayed when a failure occurred in a fuel sensor system while the vehicle's external fuel tank was being filled. One of the four engine cutoff, or ECO, sensors inside the liquid hydrogen section of the tank gave a false reading and NASA's current Launch Commit Criteria require that all four sensors function properly. The sensor system is one of several that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shut down if fuel runs unexpectedly low. Space shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission now is targeted to launch no earlier than Jan. 2. The liftoff date depends on the resolution of the problem in the fuel sensor system. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3606

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at N...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Mission Specialist Leland Melvin heads for the plane for the return trip to Houston. The crew is flying... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of two final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory reaches the end of the offloading ramp. A crane will lift it onto a flatbed trailer for transportation to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2919

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of two final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory reaches the end of the ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove an overhead crane from the second of two components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The components, which will be added to the International Space Station, will be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2925

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove an overhead crane from the second of two components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, ramps are in place for the offloading of the primary cargo from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The plane carries the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station: the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2916

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, ramps are in place for the offloading of the primary cargo from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the second component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is offloaded from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2921

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the second component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is offloaded from the Russian ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove material from a cargo box before offloading the primary cargo from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The plane carries the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station: the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2915

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove material from a cargo box before offloading the primary cargo from the Russian Antonov AH-124-10... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane has landed on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to deliver the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2912

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane ha...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane has landed on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to deliver the final components of the Japan Aerospace Ex... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A flatbed trailer carrying the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station drives past the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The trailer contains the Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, which are going to the Space Station Processing Facility. The two components arrived earlier on a Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd2926

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A flatbed trailer carrying the final component...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A flatbed trailer carrying the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station drives past the Vehicle Assembly Building ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory to place it on a flatbed trailer. It will be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2920

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory to place ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station are ready to be offloaded from the flatbed trailer and moved into the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The elements are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd2928

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Ex...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station are ready to be offloaded from the flatbed trailer and moved into the... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A flatbed trailer carrying the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station delivers them to the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd2927

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A flatbed trailer carrying the final component...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A flatbed trailer carrying the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station delivers them to the Space Station Process... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the second component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is fitted with an overhead crane to lift it to a flatbed trailer. The two components will be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2922

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the second component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is fitted with an overhead cr... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is moved out of the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2917

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is moved out of the Ru... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the nose of the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane is lifted to offload its cargo. The plane carries the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2913

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the nose of the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane is lifted to offload its cargo. The plane carries th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the second component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is lifted onto a flatbed trailer beside another component for transportation to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2923

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Ke...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the second component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is lifted onto a flatbed tra... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of two final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is moved out of the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2918

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of two final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is moved out of the Rus... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, equipment is removed from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane to facilitate offloading of the primary cargo, the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2914

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, equipment is removed from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane to facilitate offloading of the primary... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station are left inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd2930

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exp...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station are left inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kenned... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a flatbed trailer holds two components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory that will be added to the International Space Station. The components will be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd2924

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a flatbed trailer holds two components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory that will b... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station are left inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to prepare for unpacking and processing. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd2929

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exp...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station are left inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kenned... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The shipping container is lifted above the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2960

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The shipping container is lifted above the Ki...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The shipping container is lifted above the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florid... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, shipping container is uncovered in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2958

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, shipping container is uncovered in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The shipping container is lifted from the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2959

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The shipping container is lifted from the Kib...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The shipping container is lifted from the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The shipping container is moved away from the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2961

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The shipping container is moved away from the...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The shipping container is moved away from the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Flo... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, cables lower the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, onto a work stand. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2972

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, cables lower the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, onto a work stand. The ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, cables lift the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, to move it to a work stand. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2970

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, cables lift the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, to move it to a work stan... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers guide cables holding the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, as it moves to a work stand. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2971

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers guide cables holding the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, as it mo... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers connect cables to the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The ELM-ES will be moved to a work stand. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2969

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers connect cables to the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The ELM-ES... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers check the mast deployment on the SEDA-AP or Space Environment Data Acquisition equipment--Attached Payload. SEDA-AP will measure space environment in ISS orbit and environmental effects on materials and electronic devices to investigate the interaction with and from the environment at the Kibo exposed facility. The payload will be installed on the Japanese Experiment Module's Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd3752

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers check the mast deployment on the SEDA-AP or Space Environment Data Acquisition equipment--Atta... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers check the mast deployment on the SEDA-AP or Space Environment Data Acquisition equipment--Attached Payload. SEDA-AP will measure space environment in ISS orbit and environmental effects on materials and electronic devices to investigate the interaction with and from the environment at the Kibo exposed facility. The payload will be installed on the Japanese Experiment Module's Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd3751

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers check the mast deployment on the SEDA-AP or Space Environment Data Acquisition equipment--Atta... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers deploy the mast on the SEDA-AP or Space Environment Data Acquisition equipment--Attached Payload. SEDA-AP will measure space environment in ISS orbit and environmental effects on materials and electronic devices to investigate the interaction with and from the environment at the Kibo exposed facility. The payload will be installed on the Japanese Experiment Module's Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The ELM-ES will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd3750

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers deploy the mast on the SEDA-AP or Space Environment Data Acquisition equipment--Attached Payloa... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the cover from the frustum, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket. Resembling a giant funnel, the frustum's function is to transition the primary flight loads from the rocket's upper stage to the first stage. The frustum is located between the forward skirt extension and the upper stage of the Ares I-X. Weighing in at approximately 13,000 pounds, the 10-foot-long section is composed of two aluminum rings attached to a truncated conic section. The large diameter of the cone is 18 feet and the small diameter is 12 feet. The cone is 1.25 inches thick. The frustum will be integrated with the forward skirt and forward skirt extension, which already are in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. That will complete the forward assembly. The assembly then will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations, which are scheduled to begin in April. Manufactured by Major Tool and Machine Inc. in Indiana under a subcontract with Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, the Ares I-X is targeted to launch in the summer of 2009. The flight will provide NASA with an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with the Ares I launch vehicle. The flight test also will bring NASA a step closer to its exploration goals of sending humans to the moon and destinations beyond. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1749

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of N...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the cover from the frustum, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket. Res... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the cover from the frustum, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket. Resembling a giant funnel, the frustum's function is to transition the primary flight loads from the rocket's upper stage to the first stage. The frustum is located between the forward skirt extension and the upper stage of the Ares I-X. Weighing in at approximately 13,000 pounds, the 10-foot-long section is composed of two aluminum rings attached to a truncated conic section. The large diameter of the cone is 18 feet and the small diameter is 12 feet. The cone is 1.25 inches thick. The frustum will be integrated with the forward skirt and forward skirt extension, which already are in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. That will complete the forward assembly. The assembly then will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations, which are scheduled to begin in April. Manufactured by Major Tool and Machine Inc. in Indiana under a subcontract with Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, the Ares I-X is targeted to launch in the summer of 2009. The flight will provide NASA with an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with the Ares I launch vehicle. The flight test also will bring NASA a step closer to its exploration goals of sending humans to the moon and destinations beyond. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1748

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of N...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the cover from the frustum, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket. Res... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket, the frustum, is offloaded in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Resembling a giant funnel, the frustum's function is to transition the primary flight loads from the rocket's upper stage to the first stage. The frustum is located between the forward skirt extension and the upper stage of the Ares I-X. Weighing in at approximately 13,000 pounds, the 10-foot-long section is composed of two aluminum rings attached to a truncated conic section. The large diameter of the cone is 18 feet and the small diameter is 12 feet. The cone is 1.25 inches thick. The frustum will be integrated with the forward skirt and forward skirt extension, which already are in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. That will complete the forward assembly. The assembly then will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations, which are scheduled to begin in April. Manufactured by Major Tool and Machine Inc. in Indiana under a subcontract with Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, the Ares I-X is targeted to launch in the summer of 2009. The flight will provide NASA with an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with the Ares I launch vehicle. The flight test also will bring NASA a step closer to its exploration goals of sending humans to the moon and destinations beyond. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1747

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The last newly manufactured section of the Ares...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket, the frustum, is offloaded in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Resembling a giant f... More

of 2